A JUNCTION known for its neglected state has received some much-needed TLC by a dedicated parish councillor.

The Porton crossroads on the A30 had become a source of concern for residents in Firsdown, Winterslow and Porton due to the amount of weeds and vegetation that had been building up over time.

However, thanks to Firsdown parish councillor Richard Rogers and a few sleepless nights, the area is now looking much better.

Mr Rogers, a flight test engineer, said: "The A30 past Winterslow and Porton had become an issue and many locals were saying it really needed to be sorted out so I thought, I've got a bit of spare time, I'm going to wake up early, it's nice weather, I'm going to go down and do some tidying up myself and it seems to have been much appreciated.

"I know this kind of work should be done by Wiltshire Council but they've probably got other priorities at the moment and that way we don't have to close the road so it saves people a lot of hassle."

Salisbury Journal: Cllr Richard RogersCllr Richard Rogers

At the start of August, when the weather was very hot and he was struggling to sleep, the 48-year-old would wake up at 5am to clear up the road, armed only with a spade, brush, wheelie bin and "a bit of manpower".

He reckons he has been down around four times over the weekends, working a total of six to seven hours.

His efforts have been recognised by the local community and local parish councils who have praised him for his work and dedication.

He added: "I'm a great believer that sometimes you've got to do these things yourself and hopefully that will encourage others. I've had people suggesting other areas I could do but also people saying they'd like to help out."

Cllr Bridget Wayman, Cabinet Member for Highways and Streetscene said: “We have a regular grass cutting schedule in place and this area is cut once a year, with an additional cut for visibility if needed. However, we always welcome individuals or community groups that want to get involved and assist in keeping their neighbourhood clean and tidy.

"I would like to join local residents and the parish council in thanking Mr Rogers for his community spirit in keeping this area tidy.”