ESSEX County Council is urging residents to get together to make an improvement to their communities.

As part if the authority’s Love Where You Live campaign, residents are asked to organise such events as litter picking, jumble sales and cycle rides.

County councillor Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for the environment and culture, said: “Community activities are a great way of showing young people the importance of taking pride in their local environment, so why not organise a Love Where You Live event with your family during the summer holiday?”

Those participating will be sent a free support pack, with advice on how to organise community events.

People can register for the event at the Good For Essex website lovewhereyoulive.goodforessex.org.