Autoglass branch manager Sean Traferne, left, and operations manager Alf Wootton enjoy a tea break outside their workplace

A Shropshire industrial estate which was dubbed a “fly-tippers’ paradise” has been transformed after workers fed up with the constant mess decided to clean it up.

Workers on Stafford Park in Telford were faced with the daily mess of needles, litter and general waste which covered an area of more than 180ft. But staff from security firm RMP Guarding said they had had enough of it.

So they spent six months clearing the waste before transforming the area with flowers, picnic tables and a covered smoking shelter for workers.

RMP Guarding security boss Trevor Bate said workers could no longer face the mess and vowed to clear it up after they moved onto the estate, while a neighbouring firm was delighted that it was now “beautiful”.

“It was such a mess. It was in a real state,” said Mr Bate.

“We just had to tidy it up. We couldn’t run our business leaving it in such a mess. The undergrowth had encroached so much we have now reclaimed two extra parking spaces.

“I like things tidy. This is all part of the national Big Society idea and I’m happy to have helped our neighbours on Stafford Park Industrial Estate who are welcome to enjoy the space.”

Shropshire businessman Trevor Bate from RMP Guarding before the clean-up

RMP Guarding provides trained security guards, including the monitoring of 24-hour CCTV, for construction sites, factories, public buildings and private corporations.

Since the revamp, staff barbecues are now due to start at the site with neighbouring workers all invited.

Sean Traferne, branch manager of Autoglass which is opposite RMP Guarding, said: “It is so much nicer now. It was awful, full of fly-tipping and a real eyesore.

“We get customers coming in now and sitting out here to relax. It’s beautiful now.”

Mr Bate said the company has now hired a gardener from Woodside allotments in Telford to keep the area in a good condition.

Council bosses at Telford & Wrekin Council have warned potential fly-tippers that the practice is illegal and “unsightly”, and is associated with increased levels of crime and the fear of crime.

Anyone who spots fly-tipping incidents is asked to contact Telford & Wrekin Council on (01952) 384384 or out of office hours on 08451 559955.

By Jason Lavan