The clean-up at Shearwater Drive was tackled with relish by tenants. About 150 people brought out household items from children's bikes to broken garden furniture and beds in just three hours.

Electrical goods, such as fridge freezer, were collected in a separate container. The day also had a longer-term positive effect by harnessing the enthusiasm of individuals.

About a handful of them volunteered for community action. Among them were one young person wanted to hold a football tournament and two women were keen to get involved with youth work.

The event was arranged by the owner of the 59 homes in the road, registered social landlord Home Group, and Arun District Council.

Paul Wilson-Suffield, Home Havant's housing officer customer involvement, said: "The idea of the day was twofold – to tidy up the estate and to get people involved in the community.

"The response we got from everyone was fantastic. They told us what the issues were and how they could help us."

An ideas board produced about 50 suggestions. The three most popular were installing goalposts for kickabouts, creating a play area and putting in dog mess bins. These will be considered by the district council.

Representatives from the local fire and police stations also attended to add to the day's community feel.


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