A COUNCIL squad, which has been targeting the streets of Stockton, has had its life-span extended for the second time.

The Cleansing and Ground Maintenance Services Best Value Squad was introduced in July last year to improve levels of street cleanliness across the borough.

It's work, which includes litter picking, strimming, digging and sweeping, has proved widely effective and has been welcomed by many residents.

The scheme was originally funded until September 2000 but it was then given extra cash to continue its work until November.

Now the squad, consisting of four teams across the borough, will carry on cleaning until the end of March 2001.

Last week's Local Authority Performance Indicators, published by the Audit Commission, showed that Stockton had been performing poorly in the area of street cleaning.

The council hopes the extension of the squad's work will help alleviate this problem.

Councillor Barry Woodhouse said: "This hit squad has made a real impact on levels of cleanliness across the borough, and this is something we intend to maintain and improve upon."