North Tyneside Council invested an extra £600,000 over the last two years in grass cutting and street cleaning.

And now residents are benefiting from the improved service, such as a 44 per cent increase in the frequency of grass cutting.

Grass cutting is happening 72 hours each week all-year round, compared to last year's peak mid-summer period where the average was 50 hours a week.

The new system has been introduced in the north west and south west, starting in the south east of the borough this week and the north east in August.

Burradon resident Sandra Cuthbertson said: "Until recently we had a lot of trouble when the open plan lawns were cut.

"However, this has all changed and the grass is now better than when the estate was new.

"All the residents are delighted that we now have such a good service from a conscientious team."

Coun Dave McGarr, cabinet member for the environment and transport, said: "Residents have told us they want more money spent on keeping the borough clean and tidy so that's what we're doing.

"However, we're not complacent and are determined that improvements will continue to be made."