April 27, 2001 15:36: THE borough's streets were given a spring clean in a week-long campaign by a Bromley Council team last week.

Broomleigh Housing Association, the police and community groups, joined the council to target graffiti, dumped rubbish and abandoned cars in an attempt to thwart the borough's vandals.

Workers used spray guns to remove graffiti and loaded dozens of old mattresses and sofas onto their trucks.

More than 40 abandoned cars in the Penge and Anerley area were identified by the team. Nine of the vehicles were in a bad enough condition to be towed away, to the relief of local residents.

Local police and community workers also leafleted every household in the areas visited, especially in Penge, St Mary Cray and St Paul's Cray, where the most intensive activity took place.

The leaflets told residents an important part of the Spring Clean Initiative was to remind people dumping rubbish and defacing public property is an offence.

A police spokesman said: "When rubbish and vehicles are irresponsibly dumped, everyone suffers as a result.

"It is an offence to drop even the smallest amount of litter, let alone a mattress or an unwanted car."

Peter Sibley from the council's environmental department organised the clean up operation.

He said: "We hope our united efforts will improve the visual appearance of the borough, reduce crime and, therefore, enhance the overall quality of life for the people who live here.

"It is important individuals realise they are not on their own but have the backing and support of the council, Broomleigh and the police."

Anyone who can assist the police to stop vandalism can call 020 8313 1212.