Army of volunteers help clear tonnes of litter from Rushden streets

The campaign was launched by Country Life magazine in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy to clear up Britain for various outdoor events being held across the country.

During a special clean-up weekend from March 4 to 6, Rushden West Community Association (RWCA), along with district and town councillors, organised a clean-up in Rushden’s Pemberton Ward.

With the help of 20 volunteers and local PSCO Mohammed Thaseen, they targeted the Pemberton area to rid the residential streets of litter.

The council’s waste team and waste contractor, Kier brought along the refuse vehicles for a ‘waste amnesty’ taking away larger items that had been lurking in alley ways and in residents’ gardens, including old furniture, beds and mattresses, bicycles and white goods.

Between them they collected 2.5 tonnes of waste and half a tonne of scrap metal.

East Northants councillor Janet Pinnock said: “On behalf of RWCA, I would like to thank everybody who made this clean-up a success.

“It was fantastic to see the people of Rushden and beyond coming together in celebration of Her Majesty’s long service and dedication to this country.”

She added: “Thank you everyone for your support, I hope our efforts will help lead to a lasting legacy of a cleaner, tidier district.”

Anyone who couldn’t attend but wants to help keep the district clean and tidy can report a street or area that needs attention online at www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk.

The council supports community clean-ups throughout the year and provides groups with everything they need, including litter pickers, gloves, and hi-vis vests and also pick up and dispose of the rubbish collected and advise on what to do if any dangerous or harmful materials are found.

For more details or to organise your own clean-up, call 01832 742026.