Community councillors were pleased that the second town spring clean had taken place but were disappointed at the low turnout of volunteers to help at the event.

Secretary Mike Jackson said: “I don’t know whether it is appropriate for those serving community service orders, if it’s appropriate for them (to be involved).”

Treasurer Jamie Tennent added: “I second that one. It is a good point about putting something back into the community.” Mr Jackson said he would write to the appropriate authorities on the matter.

Midlothian councillor Margaret Wilson pointed out that much of the work carried out cleaning the Loanburn area of the town had been completed by offenders. This had been arranged through the social work department.

Community councillor Ian Hutchison said he would also raise the issue of a clean up in the Loanburn area with the local neighbourhood watch. He pointed out that many of the watch members were elderly — “most are old enough to be your grandparents.”

Mr Jackson continued: “Any community based organisation whether the community council, individual ward councillors or neighbourhood watch, I don’t think can sit back and say we are going to complain to the council and have it done for us, which is what I have had from a couple of people. My response is get off your backside and organise something.”

He added that it was a question of being zero tolerant. “If they get out and clear up the mess they are moving towards the state of preventing crime. If the place is a mess, it attracts more trouble and the worse it gets. Neighbourhood watch ought to be moderately positive if not at least enthusiastic to do something,” said Mr Jackson.

Mr Hutchison agreed to raise the issue at the next watch meeting. “Ask the question,” said Mr Jackson. “It is a question of how they feel about it. It may never have occurred to them that it is a function of neighbourhood watch.”