Groups and individuals in Sudbury are being urged to pool resources and combine their efforts to spruce up the town.

According to town clerk Jacqui Howells, Sudbury Town Council often receives criticism about untidy and neglected areas in the town - and the general lack of ‘care and attention’.

So now the council has called a public meeting in a bid to get the many local residents and groups who do make an effort to tidy up the town to join forces.

Mrs Howells said: “Many local organisations as well as the town council are working hard to try to rectify the situation and ensure that our town is a place to be proud of for residents, businesses and visitors.

“The Sudbury Society recently launched their ‘Love Sudbury‘ campaign and ActivLives work with volunteers in Belle Vue Park and other locations.

“There are also many individuals and businesses who take care and pride in their own premises, sweeping outside their buildings and providing hanging baskets etc.

“The town council also provides floral displays in the town, notably the superb flower troughs around the railings at St Peter’s Church in the town centre.

“However all of this good practice often goes unnoticed and is not co-ordinated with each group or individual quietly working away on their own.”

The informal public meeting will take place on Wednesday, July 19 at Sudbury Town Hall, starting at 6.30pm.

Local people interested in finding out what is being done in the town to try and keep it looking at its best, as well as anyone who has suggestions for partnership working or how things could be done in a different way is invited to attend.

Mrs Howells added: “We would welcome any group, business or individual to come and let us know what they are already doing to keep the town looking good or to give us ideas and thoughts for improvements.

“The town council often receives comments about things not being done efficiently, so now is the time to have your say and put forward your suggestions.”

In order to accommodate numbers, prospective attendees are asked to contact the town council at advice@sudburytowncouncil.co.uk or by calling 01787 372331 if they wish to attend, or require further information.