TWO councillors have joined forces with their local PCSO and the Arson Reduction Team to turn a threat into an opportunity.

Councillors Gladys and Dave Healey of the Hope and Caergwrle Wards are working with PCSO Peter Jones to launch the Hope, Abermorddu and Caergwrle Regeneration Project.

The project follows a spate of arson attacks and anti-social behaviour in the area and has been supported by Operation BANG funding from North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Cllr Gladys Healey said: "Local people were disappointed to see a derelict farmhouse in Hope destroyed by an arson attack and are determined to generate respect within the community.

"There are a number of empty buildings in the area and local people have been proactive in reporting suspicious behaviour to the police. We thank residents for their continuing vigilance."

The project will see the removal of potentially combustible materials from various locations within the three villages.

A community clean up on Saturday, October 27 and all local residents are encouraged to attend.

Those interested in taking part should meet at Hope Community Library, Castell Alun High School campus at 9am and will return to the library at 12 noon for refreshments and a presentation by the Arson Reduction Team.

Cllr Dave Healey added: "We are very grateful for the support from the police, Arson Reduction Team and Flintshire's Streetscene for assistance with the activities associated with this initiative. We hope it will make a significant difference in our community."

The project will also help prepare for local Remembrance weekend by clearing Caergwrle cenotaph of old wreaths and remove dead flowers from the bee-friendly flower beds in the Willow Playing Field.

The flower beds are due to be dedicated in memory of those who lost their lives in World War One as part of the Remembrance Service on November 11.