HOUSING staff have launched this year’s first Make a Difference day.

The first in the series took place on Thursday, in New Kiln Road, Lexden.

Staff from Colchester Borough Homes joined residents and volunteers for a host of clean-up activities, including litter picks, tree and hedge trimming and bulb planting as well as fence and garage painting.

Karen Loweman, director of housing, said “I’m proud we are in our fourth year of Make a Difference days.

“The staff, volunteers and councillors involved really do go the extra mile to make a difference in our communities and the achievements made at each event are admirable.”

The organisation plans to organise eight Make a Difference days before the end of the year.