Both the borough's MPs have backed the council's bid to ban spitting in public across Hounslow.

Mary Macleod, MP for Brentford and Isleworth and Seema Malhotra, MP for Feltham and Heston, have signed the petition to stamp out the disgusting habit, following its launch which is part of the council's 'Gob Smacked' campaign.

If a new by-law is passed people caught spitting could face on-the-spot fines of up to £80.

Ms Macleod said: "Spitting is a disgusting habit that spoils our streets. It is unhygienic and unnecessary. I am more than happy to support this campaign and would urge local residents to sign the petition. If we can get a strong momentum of opinion behind us, we stand a good chance of getting a by-law banning spitting in Hounslow."

Just one week after the petition went live more than 500 people had signed to outlaw the practice online, with many more signing the paper versions.

Seema Malhotra MP said: "I am proud to be joining local families and other Hounslow politicians in signing this important petition. I urge residents to get behind this campaign so we can stamp out this anti-social and unhygienic habit in our community."

Council leaders backed a motion to ban spitting in public places in Hounslow back in April.

However to get a by-law introduced, which will need government approval, the council must demonstrate widespread support from residents, which is why the petition has been introduced.

Enfield were the first borough to get the ban approved.

The petition will be available to sign online until December 18 at  www.hounslow.gov.uk/spitting  and in paper form in all the borough libraries and the Civic Centre