Media office

Birmingham has been named the cleanest place in the country.

The city took the crown from last year's winner, the City of London, at the Clean Britain Awards organised by the British Cleaning Council (BCC).

The so-called "Second City" won the cleanest category and also scooped the overall cleanliness prize.

It was noted for its special focus on shopping areas, transport hubs and leisure facilities and also for its introduction of wardens to monitor anti-social activity in the city centre.

Ipswich earned the title of cleanest town and Mendip in Somerset was named the cleanest district.

Cardiff was noted for its commitment to the environment and Cornwall's Truro won the best tourist's eye view title.

Judith West, chairman of the BCC, said: "Birmingham fought off some tough contenders to prove that it is the rightful owner of the cleanest crown in the UK's most prestigious street cleanliness competition.

"Winning such an award will boost the profile of Birmingham, Ipswich and Mendip as well as silencing those who criticise the state of Britain."

Clean Britain judge Paul Pearce said: "Birmingham city centre is a shining example to the rest of the UK on exactly how to keep the streets sparkling."

Finalists this year in each category were: Cities - Birmingham, Cardiff, City of London, Coventry, Edinburgh, Leeds, Newcastle, Truro, Westminster and York. Towns - Ipswich and Lewisham. Districts: Braintree, Chester, Durham, Mendip, Oadby & Wigston.