RESIDENTS living in Maybush in Southampton will be taking part in a neighbourhood clean-up this Thursday to make sure 2005 begins with a sparkle.

The drive has been organised by members of the tenant's association at William Macleod Way and Barters Close in Maybush - as well as the area's neighbourhood wardens.

The event aims to give the whole area a good clean - while providing fun for the whole family.

Local neighbourhood warden, Annette Williams, who helped organise the event, said: "We wanted to work with residents to help them give the neighbourhood a big clean-up so that everyone can start the new year with pride in their area.

"The wardens will be working to clear large items of bulky refuse and remove graffiti and, along with the council's Shine team and also the Green and Clean team,

we will be working with the residents - young and old - to pick up litter.

"We are trying to encourage as many children as possible to get involved and local businesses, including Martin's gift and car shop in Winchester Road and the Co-op in Maybush, have kindly donated prizes for those kids who do take part.

"Basically, we want to make the whole event as much fun as possible."

City council community involvement officer Debbie Edwards, who is also a resident of William Macleod Way and chairman of the tenants' association, said: "The clean-up will be a way of getting the whole community to work together to create a better neighbourhood."