ONE OF SAM'S most successful campaigns - Grotspots - has now been battling to keep the area tidy for three years.

Grotspots' anniversary comes after the initiative celebrated a success story that should benefit the community for generations to come.

The scheme was launched in a bid to clean up some of the grimiest places in the area.

The borough's top free newspaper has since worked hand in hand with Trafford Council to get to grips with a host of litter blackspots.

As well as sprucing up many litter strewn areas the initiative also recently marked the completion of a project that will have a lasting impact - the restoration of Brooks Drive in Timperley.

Brooks Drive was one of the areas first highlighted in Grotspots. The nineteenth century lane had become so overgrown it was almost impassable and it was a favourite spot for flytippers.

A community group - the Friends of Brooks Drive - was set up and secured a range of grants for the neglected route. That enabled a revamp that has transformed it into a pleasant walking route stretching from Brooklands roundabout to Dobbinetts Lane.

Geoff Marsh, the head of environmental services at Trafford, praises the campaign's involvement in the spruce up: "Grotspots has led to improvements in areas like Brooks Drive, developing initiatives to improve the environment."

Much of the campaign is concerned with day to day litter problems and the perennial problem of dogs fouling in public places.

Geoff adds: "Grotspots certainly brings to our attention areas we would not otherwise have been aware of. It has helped in educating the public about litter and flytipping issues."

He reminds residents they can use the council's free collection service for furniture and bagged garden waste by calling 912 2000.

Litter problems can be reported to the council on 912 3604. People can also contact Trafford Direct 2000 on 912 2000, which provides information and help on a range of council services.

We want our readers to continue to let us know about problem areas - please WRITE to Grotspots, Messenger, Brindley House, Ashton Lane, Sale M33 6TP; or FAX us on 908 3403. Please ensure you give precise and detailed locations and say if you would not want your name included in an article.