‘Tidy Banbridge’ build upon Big Spring Clean momentum

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Banbridge-1st-Guides-Rainbows during a Big Spring Clean event earlier this year.

Volunteers across the ABC Borough have been praised for their effort and determination to improve the local environment with dozens of Big Spring Clean litter pick events held during March and April.

And the good work is continuing into May, with another major litter pick being organised by the newly formed Tidy Banbridge group on Saturday 11 May.

Already this year, hundreds of bags of rubbish has been cleared from roadsides, green spaces and our town centres during the annual campaign which is led by the Live Here Love Here organisation in partnership with local councils.

Once again, our schools, sports clubs, community and church groups, all stepped forward to organise hugely successful litter picks, while many other people simply went out to lift rubbish by themselves, as family or in groups of friends.

Council provided litter pickers, gloves, bags and hi-vis vests and council staff helped collect waste which was gathered up during the litter picks events.

Big Spring Clean event in Waringstown.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Margaret Tinsley saw first hand the impact which was made. “Litter, as well as being very unsightly, is also very damaging to our environment and wildlife which all contribute to problems associated with climate change.

“Well done to all of the volunteers who have given of their time to pick up rubbish, we really appreciate their positive and worthwhile contribution. It was wonderful to have lots of events right across the Borough and to see new groups starting up is even more encouraging. Thank you to each and every one of you.”

A litter pick in Tullysaran.

To build upon this momentum, the council is encouraging people to consider the Adopt-a-Street scheme, which aims to support local residents, schools and businesses who wish to commit to look after a specific area which they ‘adopt’ and keep free from litter. Equipment is provided and ongoing support is given to those who register for the scheme.

If you would like to become involved with the Adopt-a-Street scheme, please contact Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council on 0300 0300 900 or email for further information.