FIREFIGHTERS are joining forces with local people and residents' groups to make a "clean sweep" of a north-west Durham community.

The Firebusting Day, tomorrow, is aimed at removing potential fire hazards and arson targets from roadside verges and street corners in South Moor, Stanley.

Previous events have been successful in ridding the community of abandoned vehicles and dumped material.

Volunteers are needed to join the effort by helping to remove graffiti, pick litter and other items, with the incentive of a free lunch on offer.

Volunteers will also have the opportunity to win tickets for the England v Azerbaijan World Cup qualifying match at St James' Park, Newcastle, later this month.

Among the partners backing Durham Fire and Rescue Service are Durham Police, the Green Neighbourhood Partnership, Groundwork West Durham, plus staff from Derwentside District Council and, most importantly, local voluntary helpers.

The title of the event was devised by a local 12-year-old, Scott McKinder, prior to one of the previous events.

Everyone is welcome to attend the event, which runs from 10am until 3pm, starting at Stanley Young People's Club, alongside South Moor Library, in Severn Crescent, South Moor.

Children can only take part with completed parental consent forms from Groundwork.

More details are available from the Green Neighbourhood Team, on (01207) 280486.