Sarsen residents are helping to keep their local area up-to-scratch and encouraging others to do the same.

The gardens and communal areas for the housing association’s residents on Belle Vue Road and Colston Road in Devizes used to be a dumping ground for rubbish. Fridge-freezers, mattresses and overflowing bin liners were often left outdoors, making the area unsightly.

But, several residents decided to give the area around their homes some TLC.

Paul Mitchell, 47, of Belle Vue Road, said: “When I moved here I was amazed at the lack of attention people paid to their gardens and back yards, but now I’m delighted with how the local area looks, especially our road.

“I didn’t used to do much gardening but when I saw that our gardens needed a bit of care, I decided to give it a go. We now have vegetables, herbs and lovely window boxes. Many people have told me on how nice it all looks.”

More residents are using new washing lines to dry clothes outdoors and some have clubbed together to buy a lawn mower.

Garry Kearley, Sarsen’s neighbourhood caretaker said: “It’s great to see residents helping make the neighbourhood look more attractive. It’s brought people together. Keeping the communal areas clean and litter-free also makes it safer for children, which is important just before the summer holidays start.”

Sarsen does routine inspections to make sure neighbourhoods are clean and tidy. It sends residents an inspection timetable so that they can join their neighbourhood housing officer on a neighbourhood walkabout.

For more information call (01380) 720027.

ENDS

For press enquiries or photographs contact:

Sophie Quartley

PR & Communications Co-ordinator

Sarsen Housing Association

DDI: 01380 735325

Email: sophie.quartley@sarsen.co.uk

Notes to editors

About Sarsen Housing Association

Sarsen Housing Association is a member of the Aster Group, the largest south west-based social landlord which provides homes and services for some 40,000 people and develops thriving successful communities across the region. Sarsen was formed in 1995 and owns and manages around 6,000 homes in south west England. It has a proven track record for building homes with more than 1,600 homes completed so far. In 2007 Sarsen won the Wiltshire Business of the Year Awards for its service to the community. It was also a finalist in several national awards, including the Chartered Institute of Housing Awards.