HOLMES Chapel Comprehensive School is taking a zero-tolerance approach to chewing gum in a bid to tackle the problem of gum on paths around the school.

A school spokesman said: “There is a growing concern about the disposal of chewing gum around school.

“Many of the pathways in school are being permanently defaced by the indiscriminate disposal of chewing gum.

“It is blighting the tarmac, tennis courts, walls and even the 3G pitch. We have invested heavily over the past few years to improve the facilities for students, and can’t stand by and watch it all be spoilt.

“So we need to take action, and fast. We will be enforcing a ban on chewing gum without exception. We all have a role to play in keeping our school clean and well maintained.”

The school said it would appreciate parents’ support for the ban.