A NEW scheme to keep chewing gum off the streets of Huntingdon and St Ives – and save taxpayers cash – has been launched by the council. Chewers in the towns can now stick their gum on to special boards, designed to prevent gum from being trodden into th

A NEW scheme to keep chewing gum off the streets of Huntingdon and St Ives - and save taxpayers' cash - has been launched by the council.

Chewers in the towns can now stick their gum on to special boards, designed to prevent gum from being trodden into the pavement.

It is hoped the so-called 'gumtargets' will save Huntingdonshire District Council some of the £17,000 it spends on cleaning up chewing gum every year.

A total of 15 gumtargets have been put up in each town - part of a 12-month trial to reduce gum mess. They will be attached to posts, walls and railings and carry distinctive logos.

Cllr Colin Hyams, from HDC, said: "Huntingdonshire is a pleasant place to live and the council has made a concerted effort to improve and maintain the appearance of our shared local spaces."

It is estimated Brits spend £300million a year on chewing gum.

INFORMATION: Visit www.gumtarget.com.