A HUGE clean-up operation, supported by several key agencies, is being launched today to brighten up a Burnley neighbourhood.

Teams of volunteers from across the town are set to descend on land around Pennine Lancashire Community Farm, in March Street.

Farm leaders have organised the event to mark their fifth anniversary, in their current form, and say they will be grateful for any 11th-hour assistance.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Burnley Council, Calico, Ribble Rivers Trust, farm volunteers and neighbours are behind the ‘spruce up’.

James Horsford, the farm’s manager, said: “Community days not only represent an excellent opportunity to support the ongoing weeding and gardening tasks at March St Community Garden site but also highlight the importance of all members of the community mixing and working together towards common goals.” The volunteers are assembling at 10.30am, and all protective equipment, bags and refreshments will be provided.

Neil Ashworth, a watch manager at Burnley Fire Station, added: “We are delighted to be part of this event as it will assist us in our efforts to reduce the number of nuisance calls we attend due to litter and rubbish.

“These incidents take up valuable resources that may be needed for more serious emergencies.

“These events also give us an opportunity to engage with the community and pass on valuable fire safety advice.”