We all care about our local streets and neighbourhoods and I know how much it upsets and angers our residents and businesses to see graffiti, fly-tipping and abandoned vehicles. That’s why I’m delighted to launch our Cleaner Croydon campaign. We will be working with residents, businesses and partners to help keep our streets clean and restore pride in where we live and work. We’re asking everyone to get involved in the campaign – there are small things we can all do to make a big difference. From disposing of our rubbish responsibly, to reporting issues on the Love Clean Streets app, or by volunteering as a Street Champion or in our beautiful parks and green spaces. Find out more about the Cleaner Croydon campaign and do get involved.

As part of the campaign, we will roll out a year-long programme of ‘blitz cleans’ in our district centres. New Addington is next, followed by Addiscombe. These follow the success of ‘blitz cleans’ in Norbury and Thornton Heath. The Council is also taking action to respond to residents’ concerns more quickly, such as by removing abandoned vehicles. Together we can make a real difference.

Community groups

Congratulations to members of HOME Residents’ Association, in Addiscombe, who celebrated its 20th Anniversary this week! I also attended the Annual General Meeting of the Asian Resource Centre of Croydon, which is 25 this year. Thank you to both of these groups for everything you do to support our communities.

Black History Month

I am honoured to be attending a special Holy Communion service for Black History Month at St Matthew’s Church on Saturday, led by the Bishop of Croydon, the Rt Rev Rosemarie Mallett. The month of celebrations and contemplation continues this weekend with a packed programme of music, dance, African storytelling and talks at Croydon Clocktower and Katharine Street. See the Culture Croydon website for details.

Celebrating Diwali

The Hindu festival of Diwali is on 31 October to 1 November and celebrations are starting this weekend in Croydon. Centrale and Whitgift invite residents to celebrate the festival of lights on Saturday (26 October) and a community event is being held at Coulsdon Community Centre. A very happy Diwali to all our residents celebrating.

Have a good weekend.

Jason Perry

Executive Mayor of Croydon