The Cotswold and Evesham Journals are urging readers to go 'green' and do their bit for the environment, with a new campaign backed by Conservative leader David Cameron and TV personality Alistair McGowan.

The sister titles have begun a year-long campaign to highlight green issues and help the environment.

And the MP, whose Witney constituency includes Chipping Norton, sent out a Christmas message to all Cotswold Journal readers to urge them to Keep It Green over the festive period and into the new year.

He said: "We all have responsibilities not just to ourselves, but a social responsibility to each other.

"And nowhere more so than on the environment. Those who are fortunate to live in this part of the country can see the rural environment at its best - right on our doorsteps.

"Everyone has a role to play in helping to protect and enhance the environment for others."

TV star Alistair McGowan also sent out a special page one message in the Evesham Journal.

He said: "The environment does not discriminate against anyone, we can all switch off a light when we leave the room or not fill the kettle as much or even take a shower instead of a bath.

"Recycle your Christmas cards and wrapping paper afterwards too and if you are unfortunate enough to get an unwanted present then pass it on to someone who can use it or donate it to a charity shop."

Journal Series editor John Murphy said that green issues were at the heart of the community and were increasingly relevant to everyone's lives.

"We hope to make 2007 a green year by continously highlighting environmental issues - this is something we just cannot afford to ignore.

"The launch is the start of a number of initiatives we have planned to keep the issues high on everyone's agenda."