A new council hotline was launched yesterday in a bid to install a sense of civic pride in five Norfolk market towns.The £200,000 Pride in Breckland campaign began in Thetford and is set roll into Dereham, Watton, Attleborough, and Swaffham over the next few weeks.

A new council hotline was launched yesterday in a bid to install a sense of civic pride in five Norfolk market towns.

The £200,000 Pride in Breckland campaign began in Thetford and is set roll into Dereham, Watton, Attleborough, and Swaffham over the next few weeks.

A marquee was set up in Thetford town centre yesterday as officers from Breckland Council and partner agencies listened to residents concerns and suggestions for local community projects.

The campaign, which also sees the formation of a 24 hour 'Prideline', aims to create a cleaner, greener and safer district for residents and future generations.

Steve Askew, executive member for communities at Breckland Council, added that it was aiming to make people feel proud of where they live.

“The campaign is not about doing things to or for communities, rather it is about enabling and empowering communities, it is only through acting together in this way that we can hope to make a sustainable difference.”

“By working in partnership we aim to improve cross agency working and community involvement while creating links with the community, business and local self-help groups,” he said.

The Pride in Breckland marquee will move to Dereham Market on Friday, the Wayland Show on Sunday, Queen's Square, Attleborough, on August 7 and Swaffham Market on August 16.

The new confidential 24 hour Prideline number is 01362 853296 and provides another way for residents to tell the district council of any issues important to their community. A Pride in Breckland website has also been set up.

For more information, visit www.prideinbreckland.org.uk