keep Britain Tidy poster

Council supports nationwide community clean-up

Northumberland County Council has pledged its support for this year’s Great British September Clean, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

The campaign, which was postponed in early spring due to Covid-19, will run from 11-27 September. It will encourage the great British public to take part in small, socially distanced clean-ups to remove litter from streets, parks and beaches across the country.

The Great British Spring Clean brings together individuals, community organisations, businesses and councils to show they love where they live and in 2019 more than half a million #LitterHeroes collected more than 900,000 bags of rubbish.

To find out how you can get involved, whether that’s in the course of your daily routine or with up to five friends or family, visit www.keepbritaintidy.org/GBSpringClean 

This year the council is once again backing the scheme, encouraging people to do their bit in collecting litter in their local area but making sure they stay safe.

The council also has a limited supply of equipment to give to pickers - from grabbers and bags to hi-viz vests.

Councilllor Glen Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Local Services, said: “It’s more important than ever we all do our bit to keep Northumberland clean and tidy and we want to encourage people to take part while remembering to stay safe.

“People must be aware of social distancing and the need for regular handwashing.

“We can offer equipment and together we can make a real difference and clean up the environment on our doorsteps.”

Keep Britain Tidy Deputy Chief Executive Richard McIlwain said: “Never before has it been more important for our community to unite in our fight against litter. We know that taking part in community action has positive effects on our mental health, and right now, anything we can do to unite British citizens and empower communities to make a difference during these uncertain times is so important.

“We are delighted that Northumberland County Council is supporting this year’s campaign and would like to thank them for their support”.

To request some litter picking equipment from the council please email carrol.hessey@northumberland.gov.uk
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