A clean up Diss campaign is being launched today to make the town looked care for and inspire a sense of pride. Town councillors are leading the initiative which includes blitzing pavements and the fronts of buildings with a power washer, litter picking and cleaning streets in the main shopping centre - with the assistance of South Norfolk Council.

A clean up Diss campaign is being launched today to make the town looked care for and inspire a sense of pride.

Town councillors are leading the initiative which includes blitzing pavements and the fronts of buildings with a power washer, litter picking and cleaning streets in the main shopping centre - with the assistance of South Norfolk Council.

They will also be talking to traders about what they can do to help improve the appearance of the area and the impression that visitors get when they visit Diss.

Town clerk, Deborah Sarson, said: “Many complaints have been received about the shabby look of the shopping areas of the town. If you look around there is peeling paint, rotting wood, grimy walls and rubbish and debris built up in nooks and crannies around Mere Street, Chapel Street, St Nicholas Street and Market Hill.

“Diss Town Council aims to have the town centre brightened up, and if everybody gets involved and continues to maintain their own areas it will provide a positive experience for locals and visitors alike - and restore a sense of civic pride in our lovely town.

“Whilst it is recognised that much of the problem is caused by antisocial behaviour and petty vandalism, it is important not to allow this minority to spoil it for everyone else,” she said.

The clean up campaign is just one of several ways the town council is working to promote Diss as a tourist destination and support the local independent traders who make the rural community unique.

But Mrs Sarson said the town council cannot do it alone. She added: “The combined efforts of the local authorities, the community and businesses are needed to ensure the future economic viability and vitality of Diss.”

It has been decided to enter the town in this year's Eastern Daily Press Community Pride in Norfolk Awards, with the judging of the finalists to take place in the summer.