A spring clean of streets will remove chewing gum from pavements and get rid of graffiti.

Brighton and Hove City Council is also installing a further 268 litter bins throughout the city.

Environment councillor Chris Morley said: "It is the first time we have undertaken such a major campaign to improve the appearance of our streets.

"It is an exciting initiative and we hope everyone in the city will notice the difference."

The street washing will be undertaken by high-pressure water jets in the city and will remove ground-in dirt.

Work will be carried out until the end of next month and is being done at night to minimise disruption.

The cleaning will also be extended to pavements to get rid of chewing gum. Residents will be notified of the work in advance.

The blitz to remove graffiti will start next month and work will include putting protective coatings on surfaces in some areas.

New bins will include special stubber plates for putting out cigarettes, to be installed in batches over the next few weeks.

Coun Morley appealed to people to use the new bins and not to drop litter or gum on the streets.