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The London riots have provoked ordinary citizens from across the capital to step forward in a bid to help their communities. As images of rampaging protesters, destroying their communities have dominated the media, citizens and community groups have stepped forward with offers to help clean up the mess. And, like the protesters, the clean-up campaigners – who have been dubbed the Riot Wombles – have used social networking and websites in a bid to organise themselves in the fight back against the disruption. Croydon LBC leader, Mike Fisher, said: ‘What we saw last night was the destruction of our communities by a mindless minority that the majority of people hold in complete and utter contempt. Riot wombles: Citizens and community groups have joined forces to clean up after the civil unrest. (Pic: AP Child/EMPICS Entertainment.) ‘But, rising from the smoke and ashes we very quickly saw that the people of Croydon who hold this place, its community bonds and its history dear begin to mobilise themselves in defiance of those criminals.' Director of think-tank, the NLGN, Simon Parker, hailed the move as a step in the right direction for communities. ‘Anyone who doubts that communities can come together in adversity needs to look closely at the Riot Wombles. Perhaps the only good thing to emerge from all this anarchy is proof that the Big Society can work,' he said. Communities secretary, Eric Pickles, also praised the volunteer street cleaners, but he denied the riots were a symptom of the breakdown of community cohesion. Mr Pickles said: ‘The way most people have reacted and the way that people have come out to clean up their streets… is an indication that Londoners will not be cowed by a sub-culture of criminals.' Similar stories were reported across the capital. Lewisham LBC also saw volunteers arrive to tackle the damage and destruction. Directly-elected mayor of the borough, Sir Steve Bullock, told The MJ: ‘The response from the community in Lewisham has been the most reassuring thing. ‘Ordinary residents are not only saying this has to stop, they are also coming out to help with the clean up.' Enfield LBC has launched a ‘Respect for Enfield' campaign as part of its response to the situation. Council leader, Doug Taylor, said the council was determined to ‘reclaim our streets'. ‘We've been inundated with requests from residents asking if we want their help and this demonstrates the support and strength of feeling demonstrated by normal residents.'

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Riot-hit locals rush to help in clean-up

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