ACTION to tackle spitting in public across Hounslow has taken a decisive step forward with the launch of a petition against the habit.

The council-backed campaign called Gob Smacked will be available online and in paper form in all borough libraries, and at the Civic Centre, in Lampton Road, Hounslow.

Councillor Ed Mayne, cabinet member for community safety and regulatory services, said: "We want to stamp out spitting in Hounslow – it’s an anti-social, filthy habit. But we cannot introduce a ban without the support of local residents. So, if you want to stand up for standards in Hounslow and ban spitting – sign our petition."

The petition follows a council motion proposing a ban on spitting which was backed earlier this year. The council needs to demonstrate public support for a Government approved by-law, in order to introduce the ban.

Councillor Liz Mammatt – who proposed the motion – said: “Spitting in public is foul and is becoming a problem in many parts of London. We want to ban it in Hounslow but we cannot do so without the support of our residents, which is why it’s hugely important as many people as possible sign this petition.”

To sign the petition online visit www.hounslow.gov.uk/spitting

The petition will run until 18 December.