BUSINESSMAN Myles Hayden is in the process of establishing a new company dedicated to the chewing gum menace. Discarded, unsightly gum is a major problem in public places throughout the country. Mr Hayden, aged 40, believes he is on to a winner with his venture - Gum Busters.

His main company, Hayden Holdings, has operated for about 15 years in property maintenance.

He has the UK distribution rights for a multi-purpose cleaning machine, Amerivap, made by General Vapor in America.

It can be used for tasks such as removing grease from floors and stripping walls and plaster and he has used it in the past to remove chewing gum trampled underfoot.

But it took an item about the issue on regional television to inspire the Gum Busters idea.

He now plans a nationwide operation offering initial cleaning of gum spots and regular contracts to keep surfaces clean.

Mr Hayden, who used to work in sales management with national companies, says: "I am convinced there is a market for this service."

He said the machine heated water, producing steam, which is ejected at low pressure through various nozzles.

The tarmac forecourt at Food & Tipple in Tong Road, Little Lever, is splattered with hundreds of white spots.

Mr Hayden showed the Evening News how the gum lifts off when the steam is applied.

"As no detergents are needed, this process is favourable to the environment," he said.

Mr Hayden is currently operating his business from his home in Kentmere Road, Bolton, but is looking for premises elsewhere.

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