YOUNGSTERS in Breightmet were so disgusted by the amount of litter outside their school that they asked teachers if they could take action.

Children at SS Osmund and Andrew's RC Primary School said rubbish dropped in the street made the area look "scruffy and untidy".

The school's Life Skills group — which works with local businesses and community groups — picked litter around Breightmet Health Centre and and the library area and filled five black bin bags in just one hour.

Headteacher John Thorpe said: "'The children did very well to collect so much rubbish in such a short period.

"They did particularly well when you consider it rained constantly and it was very cold.

"They never once complained or asked to go back to school — although they were very pleased when they did.

"It's a shame that the irresponsible behaviour of one or two people affects the whole community.

"In school we encourage the pupils to have a pride in their local community as we are all merely stewards of it, looking after it for future generations.

"However, society seems to view community service as a punishment for wrong doing.

"But how can helping your community be a punishment?"

The children spotted the litter as they walked to and from school.

Lincoln Morgan, aged six, said: "I wish people would take their litter home."

Amy Brockbank, aged eight, added: "I've seen some rubbish thrown out of a car window."

Lewis Middleton, aged 10, said: "If you are visiting Bolton and see all this rubbish you would go to Bury or Manchester next time."

Finlay Cooke, aged seven said:"We need more bins on the street."

Pupils also roped in local councillor John Byrne to take part in the litter pick.