THOUGHTFUL youngsters will be stepping out on the streets of White City to look after their community.

Gloucester City Homes has announced the launch of its second Junior Wardens scheme, which will see the group – the "Streetsteppers" – taking care of their neighbours and community.

Lisa Howarth, head of customer services and community investment for the authority, said: "I'm delighted to support a second group of junior wardens in Gloucester.

"The Streetsteppers at Finlay Community School are excited about becoming involved in their community and looking forward to seeing the results of their inspections in the neighbourhood."

A spokeswoman for Gloucester City Homes said: "Gloucester City Homes is delighted to announce the launch of a second Junior Wardens scheme. The new scheme is based in White City and has been set up as a result of partnership working with Finlay Community School and White City Adventure Playground.

"The group will carry out their first estate inspection on March 11 and will take part in a programme of activities over the coming months, including awareness sessions on anti-social behaviour and environmental issues."

The scheme is part of a programme of Junior Warden Schemes planned for the city as a result of GCH's work with community stakeholders.

The schemes are aimed at encouraging children to become more involved in their community and take pride in it. Junior wardens are encouraged to show respect for themselves, their community and their environment and take ownership of their area.

The spokeswoman continued: "A group of children from Finlay Community School has volunteered to become junior wardens. The group has chosen the name Streetsteppers and has worked on developing their logo to identify the scheme.

"The Streetsteppers will carry out inspections within the community on a regular basis to identify and report issues such as fly tipping, graffiti, litter dropping, vandalism to bus shelters and play areas and untidy gardens.

"They will also be able to give us ideas on how to improve the local area. It is hoped the children will encourage friends and family to take more care of the community."