A city councillor wants to start up a non-political city-wide group that will come up with creative solutions to improve Carlisle's open spaces.

Jeffrey Bomford, who was elected as an independent councillor to Botcherby last May, is looking for volunteers who are passionate about the city.

The idea is for an overarching group to coordinate with existing groups and projects in the city to help clear up areas, but also think of creative solutions to problems.

Mr Bomford said: “This group would hopefully bring communities together. It's just trying to tie it all together, saying we are all Carlisle.”

Problems which he believes should be tackled include graffiti, dog fouling and tidying up parks.

Mr Bomford used the example of graffiti boards as an example of creative solutions to problems. Rather than painting on walls, he said graffiti boards could be put up and then if the artwork is good enough, the boards could be sold for charity.

Conservative city councillor Gareth Ellis recently said he was embarrassed by the litter, dog fouling and conditions of the streets in Castle ward. The ward covers central parts of Carlisle including the city centre and stretches into some neighbouring residential districts.

Mr Ellis later told the News & Star the comments were made in the heat of the moment at a council meeting, but he maintained he was embarrassed about the state of the streets.

Labour councillor Les Tickner, deputy leader of Carlisle city council, hit back at Mr Ellis' comments saying they were an insult to the hard working staff who keep the streets clean and a slur on the residents who take pride in their community.

Mr Bomford's group will need everything from a chairman to treasurer and as many volunteers as possible.

He can be contacted on 07754 764529 or by emailing Jeffrey.bomford@carlisle.gov.uk