AN initiative to clear Bolton of rubbish and grime gathered pace as influential figures from the town pledged their support.

The Bolton News' Bin it for Bolton 2007 campaign was launched yesterday with the full backing of the town's three main political parties.

Now, the Bolton Town Centre manager, Cathy Savage, and one of the town's MPs have given their backing to the campaign.

Our website has also been inundated with messages from readers naming the grot spots that are blighting their lives.

Lending his support, Dr Brian Iddon, MP for Bolton South-east, said: "I urge everyone to do their bit when it comes to keeping Bolton clean.

"When I'm out and about meeting people, litter is an issue that comes up time and time again.

"I think the street cleaners and litter pickers do a superb job, but one thing I always notice, particularly at this time of year, are the shrub beds full of bottles and cans.

"Another of my pet hates is chewing gum. Victoria Square is completely covered with it and it's a real nuisance."

The original Bin it for Bolton campaign, launched in 2004, led to a visible improvement in the town centre as more people started to use bins and £50 on-the-spot fines were introduced for anybody seen dropping litter.

The campaign has been re-launched this year with the aim of cleaning up the borough and restoring some civic pride.

We are asking residents to log on to our website and report the worst spots for litter and dumped rubbish.

Readers can also write to us or contact the paper by telephone.

We will then highlight areas of concern to Bolton Council and community groups in the area to help clear the streets of junk and rubbish.

Bolton Town Centre manager, Cathy Savage, said: "We do have a problem with litter in the town and it all boils down to people not caring about their surroundings and the environment.

"It really annoys me, seeing people drop litter in the street.

"There are 120 bins in Bolton town centre. If people feel there are not enough and there should be more placed in certain areas then feel free to get in touch with me or the council."

The campaign has also struck a chord with local business owners.

Michael Epifaniou, who owns Birch's Bakery in Market Street precinct, Farnworth, said: "We definitely need to see an improvement in this area.

"I think it is disgusting the rubbish people leave behind after a night out.

"We do need more bins, but then its up to people to use them as well."

Dozens of readers have contacted the paper, naming and shaming the places they think are in desperate need of a good clean-up.

And although many calls, letters and emails have focused on litter problems in the town centre, it is clear that there are plenty of other examples throughout the borough.

A visit by The Bolton News to the back of Vernon Street, Farnworth and Freshfield Road, Great Lever, uncovered a mass of mess, including bicycle wheels, bin bags and bottles.