Dagenham residents have launched a Facebook group to highlight what they say is a growing litter issue in the town.

Olivia Virag and her partner Nick Richmond formed Dirty Dagenham earlier this month after observing years of a “growing rubbish problem” across Dagenham.

The couple wanted to get others involved to fight the issue.

Since being formed, the group has attracted more than 100 members who share the same concern.

Litter in an alleyway between Marston and HeathwayThe alleyway between Marston and Heathway with rubbish strewn across it (Image: 'Dirty Dagenham' member) Olivia said: “I have been fighting against the rubbish situation for years. I only moved to Dagenham in 2020, but since then it has gotten so much worse.

“I have sent photos to the council but absolutely nothing has happened.

“I created the Facebook group as somewhere to put the hundreds of photos of litter that were in my phone. I am also convincing people to put up their own pictures on the group to create added attention.

“I want to gather everyone who cares for the environment and is as angry as me to join the fight. On my own I don’t think I am enough."

Overflowing bins are a problem highlighted by 'Dirty Dagenham' membersOverflowing bins are a problem highlighted by Dirty Dagenham members (Image: Olivia Virag) Nick felt that people will not be drawn to come to live in the borough while the problem does not improve.

“If nothing changes, people will simply not be as attracted to here as they are to other boroughs."

Olivia believes the council needs to be tougher on waste breaches.

She claimed: “There isn’t one sole culprit to blame but I think the local businesses are very responsible for this. They are not being prosecuted for the litter they produce."

Olivia claims to have 'hundreds' of pictures of rubbish on her phoneOlivia claims to have 'hundreds' of pictures of rubbish on her phone (Image: Olivia Virag) A Barking and Dagenham Council spokesperson said: “Keeping our streets clean and tidy is a key priority for us. We’re aware of some residents’ frustrations and our teams are working hard to address any concerns that are raised.

“Like councils across the country, we face tough financial challenges with reduced funding for services, but we’re continuing to review and reallocate resources and additional support where needed.

“We continue to work hard to keep our streets as clean as possible.”