Local litter picking heroes celebrated in the New Forest

The volunteers who help keep the New Forest clean are being praised by the district council.

With a "major" rise in litter across public spaces this year, organisations across the area are recognising the response made by the local community.

Cllr David Russell, NFDC's Portfolio holder for people and places said:

"We all have a responsibility to keep our surroundings clean and tidy. Litter is not just an eyesore; it is a danger to people and wildlife and is costly to clean up. We are lucky to have enthusiastic volunteers looking out for the New Forest, and as restrictions are lifting, we are keen to support people's efforts to clean up our district safely.

Whether you want to clean up at your park, town, beach or forest, we can help you by supplying the equipment you need and collecting the rubbish you pick up."

Now they are encouraging people to get involved with the New Forest Spring Clean, which starts at the end of the month.

It's a joint initiative between New Forest District Council, Forestry England, New Forest National Park Authority, Hampshire County Council, National Trust and the Verderers of the New Forest.

People are being asked to make an online pledge to clean up the forest in a bid to meet a national 'million mile mission'.

It's part of the national 'Great British Spring Clean' and runs from May 28th to the 13th June.

During that time, Forestry England will also be setting up rubbish collection points, where litter pickers can safely dispose of the waste they collect with as much as possible being recycled.

Bruce Rothnie, Deputy Surveyor of the New Forest, Forestry England, said:

"Our staff have seen first-hand the escalating problem of litter on the Forest and the danger it poses to wildlife. Over the last year they have collected everything from smouldering disposable BBQs, to abandoned kayaks, clothing and many tonnes of plastic waste. Support from the local community in tackling litter has been simply incredible. So many individuals and local groups are giving their time to help keep the Forest clear of litter. We thank them for their amazing care of this special place and look forward to supporting them further during the Great British Spring Clean."

New Forest District Council can lend equipment for groups of up to 30 volunteers, including litter grabbers and hi-vis vests, for organised litter picking events

For more details, visit their website.

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• new forest
• litter picking
• the great british spring clean