It showed in the last year the number of sites where non-alcoholic drinks cans and bottles were found was down from 57% of areas surveyed to 51%, with small decreases in the number of sites with cigarette ends, fast food litter, broken glass and discarded food.

However, it was not all good news, there was a slight increase in the number of sites where dog mess was found – up to 8% from 6% last year – and increases in the amount of graffiti and plastic bags.

Keep Britain Tidy looked at 12,000 sites in 54 local council areas to show the prevalence of different forms of litter in our open spaces.

Environment minister, Jim Fitzpatrick said: “It really does matter to all of us that our streets and places where we live and work are getting a little cleaner – but there is much more to do.

“It only takes a little effort to put our litter in the bin, but it makes a huge difference to our own wellbeing and to the environment.”

Luke Walsh

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