COUNCIL bosses have a new weapon in their armour to help keep the district's town centres clean - a new chewing gum removal machine.

The new equipment, which is worn as a back pack, uses a mixture of steam and detergent to quickly remove gum discarded on the streets.

Wyre Forest District Council's team of street cleaners will be incorporating gum removal in their regular cleansing programmes across the district.

It will also be available for schools and other organisations to hire, creating extra income for the council which is reinvested into services to benefit all who live, work and visit Wyre Forest.

Councillor Rebecca Vale, cabinet member for operational services, said: "Our vision is to keep the district looking clean and green, so the new equipment will be a great tool for us.

"Our aim is to persuade people not to throw chewing gum and litter on the streets in the first place, but in the meantime this equipment will help spruce up the streets.

"Our new year anti-litter campaign in Kidderminster was well-received and we will continue to work with residents and visitors to keep or district clean and looking good."