Fruit farmer Angus Davison has responded to criticisms from Ledbury Town Council that students he employs are not litter-conscious.

Mr Davison has sent a letter to town clerk June McQuaid stating that students are actually clearing up litter on the area from Haygrove Farm to Ledbury Preserves on a weekly basis.

He said all students are given an introduction concerning litter and added: "They feel they do all they can and are perhaps being blamed for the acts of others."

Coun Noel Roberts, who has blamed students for littering in the past, said: "I have seen students picking up litter but often only after we've written to the farmer. I have caught students throwing litter but they do clean it up if they are asked to, I will accept that."

Several councillors have expressed concern that some John Masefield High School pupils do not appear to be litter conscious. Coun Catharine Luck said she had reported littering in The Southend to the school.

The council is to write to the school saying the problem needs addressing.