March is spring clean month in Falmouth and all businesses are urged to do their bit to give the town a lift before Easter.

Under the Take Pride in Falmouth initiative, Carrick council has arranged for an intense clean of the main streets and the litter bins. Work has already started with the power washing of all bins, inside and out, power washing of all granite floor stones and surfaces that are not laid to sand, a full wash down of all public toilet buildings including entrances and slipways and a wash down of all static structures, like the fountain on The Moor.

The council is awaiting a quotation from a specialist contractor to power cleanse the areas of the town where the paving is bedded in sand. If acceptable, this work will be carried out immediately, so all the roads of the town will have been cleaned by April.

Samantha Groom, tourism officers said "The recent visitor survey for Falmouth highlights that the town benefits hugely from day visitors and that their main activities are shopping and spending their money in Falmouth's restaurants and cafes. With the tourism industry being so important for our local prosperity we must make sure we offer high levels of quality to retain our market share and maximise the benefits these visitors bring."

Also wanting to get things off to a good start, the Take Pride in Falmouth committee have agreed to a one off payment to cover the costs associated with cleaning the roof gutters. With a poor response from traders, Take Pride in Falmouth has decided to pay the £20 per shop front to have the gutters cleaned, as it was felt this was such an important part of making the town a smarter place. Using a cherry picker platform, removal of unsightly weeds from the gutters has begun and will continue to take place early morning and during the evening, weather permitting.

Councillor Mike Varney said: "The take up by traders is extremely disappointing. This is a wonderful initiative and through successful partnership working we are raising the standard of the town centre for both local residents and visitors to enjoy. Hopefully when the traders see what a difference Take Pride in Falmouth is making to their businesses they will be more supportive."