A fly-tipping hotspot publicised by the Harrow Times and a group of politicians and campaigners has been cleaned up.

People complained for several months about the waste being dumped in a service road at the corner of High Road and Long Elmes in Harrow Weald.

Rats and mice were beginning to be a problem as increasing amounts of rubbish, including industrial waste and mattresses, were appearing in the road.

Harrow’s Liberal Democrats organised a petition, calling on the council to do something about the waste, and the campaign was publicised in the Harrow Times.

Just two weeks later, the site has been cleared by Harrow Council, with businesses told to lock their gates and prevent the problem reoccurring.

Ross Barlow of the Harrow Weald Lib Dems said: “This is a huge result. We worked hard talking to local residents, mobilising support and piling pressure on the council.

“I would like to thank the Harrow Times for really helping us hold the council’s feet to the fire in the best traditions of campaigning local journalism.”

Local activist Darren Diamond said: “We have submitted lots of petitions for the council to take action on regarding everyday problems Harrow residents face - it’s good to see one finally being acted on.”