More than 2,000 people are expected to take to the streets of Oxford today and tomorrow for the annual spring clean of the city.

A total of 122 community groups and schools have responded to the OxClean 2012 appeal for volunteers, who will take part in two-hour litter-picks across the city this weekend.

OxClean spokesman Christine Thompson said: “This is our fifth annual spring clean and the turnout is fantastic.

“The number of groups and schools committed to clean Oxford more than matches the record turnout last year.

The volunteers represent an impressive cross-section of Oxford’s communities from all corners of the city. We will be seeing volunteers from allotment associations, friends of local parks, business, residents’ associations, environment groups, parish councils, tennis clubs, Rotary clubs, student unions, churches and mosques.”

As usual the effort will be boosted by Brownies, Scouts, wildlife trust volunteers and primary and secondary schools.

OxClean is being run by Oxford Civic Society, with The Oxford Times and Oxford City Council again acting as partners.

Hundreds of litter-pickers and branded vests will be distributed on loan from OxClean depots during the event, to supplement 250 litter-pickers already donated to community groups.

Other equipment will be supplied by Oxford City Council, which will be collecting rubbish.

While many groups focus on their local neighbourhood and open spaces, groups have been encouraged to adopt neglected so-called grot-spots across the city.

Ms Thompson said the OxClean’s benefits extended beyond clearing rubbish.

She said: “In previous years. we have heard many reports about people meeting up with neighbours, getting to know each other better and deciding to take year-round action in their neighbourhoods.”

Last spring saw 118 community groups and state schools leading the way, removing massive quantities of litter and scrap that blighted the city.