WEST Somerset has the cleanest streets in the country, according to a report released this week by a national union.

The GMB named West Somerset Council as one of the top three authorities in the country for its litter and dirt-free streets using figures from local government watchdog the Audit Commission.

The authority - more used to brickbats than bouquets - found itself ranked alongside the affluent London suburb of Kensington and Chelsea and the nearby London borough of Slough.

Cllr Chris Morgan, the authority's lead member for environment, said: "Naturally we are over the moon to win such a great title and to have our work recognised at the highest level.

"We work in partnership with Veolia Environmental Services to keep the district's streets clean so that residents can enjoy the best possible environment.

"Through our partnership and other actions, such as cleaning Minehead beach on a daily basis throughout the summer season, we aim to help maintain and improve the good quality of life for all in West Somerset."

A report from the GMB said highways in West Somerset, Kensington and Chelsea and Slough all had deposits of detritus - classed as dust, soil, grit, leaves, blossom and grass cuttings that has started to decompose - below the required acceptable level.

West Somerset and Slough were also found to be litter-free, although two per cent of highways in Kensington and Chelsea did not meet the quality standard.

Julie Lynch, Veolia's operations and environmental manager, said: "As local people who live and work in the district, we take a great pride in what we do.

"We are delighted that our work with the council has brought national recognition of West Somerset's high quality cleanliness."

In contrast, highways in neighbouring Taunton Deane were well above the national standard for detritus and were ranked among the dirtiest in the South West.