Boris Johnson launches grime-busting phone app

A new "grime crime" mobile phone app is being launched today by Boris Johnson to tackle fly-tipping, graffiti and littering.

The Love Clean London tool allows residents to upload photos of problem areas online and details will then be passed to councils.

It lets complainants track the progress of clean-ups and gives them a free and easy way to help keep their communities tidy.

The website will save councils millions in administration costs as well as improving the efficiency of street cleaning services.

Pioneering Lewisham council has been able to hold its public cleaning budget at 2003/4 levels as a result.

The move is part of the Mayor's campaign to clean up the streets before the Olympics next year. He has written to all boroughs inviting them to join the new scheme.

Mr Johnson said as he cleaned up graffiti in Richmond: "This use of technology can deliver real savings while encouraging people to take an active pride in their environment."