Businesses on London Road took to the streets with their brooms and spray guns last week.

More than 50 traders were joined by residents, faith groups and local charities to sweep the pavements and shopping areas along the West Croydon road.

The event was part of an awareness drive organised by London Road Traders Association who believe the council have neglected the shopping area when it comes to action on fly-tipping and street cleansing.

Ganapathy Kasinathan, Chair of the London Road Traders Association said: "It is now nearly a year since the riots hit London Road. Local businesses were severely affected and suffered big losses.

"Lots of promises were made after the riots by Council officers and politicians to help the businesses get back on track and improve the environment. Those have all been empty promises.

"The roads are still dirty, the police are still absent, and there has not been any physical improvement to the area despite the millions Croydon has got in funding off the back of the riots."

The London Road Traders Association is working closely with the West Croydon Community Forum, bringing together community groups, residents and businesses.

To join the London Road Traders Association contact ganpaa@gmail.com. For more information on the West Croydon Community Forum contact Bhupendra.solanki@cvalive.org.uk or visit westcroydonforum.wordpress.com