THE MP for Carlisle has declared a war on weeds.

John Stevenson said unacceptable weed growth in Carlisle city centre and the constituency's surrounding residential and business areas is a cause for concern.

He said that a number of constituents have raised concerns in areas like Stanwix, Denton Holme, Belle Vue, and Belah.

Mr Stevenson has since written to the chief executive of Cumberland Council, asking for immediate action to be taken.

He said: “I have received a number of complaints from concerned residents and I have seen the state of areas around Carlisle when I have been out and about myself.

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“At a time when children are on their summer break and we should be enjoying the outdoors and welcoming new visitors to our city, this is not what we want them to see.

“Some of the weeds look quite established.

“It is the responsibility of Cumberland Council and I have asked for immediate action.”

Mr Stevenson was joined by former Carlisle City Council representative for Stanwix Urban, Fiona Robson, on a walk around the city to some of the worst-affected areas, with one area being in the heart of Stanwix by The Crown pub.

Other affected areas which have been named include the railway station and around Harraby.