By James Johnson

Last updated at 15:04, Friday, 22 March 2013

The Mayor of Aspatria has criticised the amount of litter dumped in the town.

Alan Reay: More should be done to stop litter problem

Alan Reay said while walking around the library area he came across piles of litter and rubbish.

A CCTV system had been installed at the library to attempt to curb litter and anti-social driving but this had little effect, a town council meeting heard this week.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Reay said more should be done to stop it from happening, although an Allerdale Council representative had cleaned the mess up.

He said: “There was a mess on the market square by the gym.

“The CCTV isn’t providing the level of service required. It’s an absolute waste of money.”

In the past residents have called for more police presence in Aspatria, particularly to deal with anti-social driving.

The police have launched campaigns to tackle the issue of vehicles speeding through the town on the A596.

PCSO Sarah Fletcher said that the CCTV system was useful for preventing this kind of behaviour.

She said: “It’s a good CCTV system but it takes time for the lens to refocus. I’m persevering with it.”

She added that anyone witnessing littering or antisocial driving should contact the police.

Councillor Trevor Gear added: “It’s a very difficult situation.”

First published at 14:59, Friday, 22 March 2013
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk