'Spring Clean' success for litter pickers in Dumfries and Galloway
Volunteers collected a record amount for the area, winning best campaign and most beach cleans in the process.
Last updated 20th Apr 2023
Litter pickers across Dumfries and Galloway collected over 1880 bags of rubbish during Scotland's annual 'Spring Clean' event.
More than 1700 volunteers, including local schoolchildren, turned out to help clear rubbish off roads, beaches and grasslands throughout the region.
The clean-up, organised by charity Keep Scotland Beautiful, took place from March 17th to April 17th.
The local authority won the award for best overall campaign, as well as most beach cleans.
Their haul of 1885 bags of litter and 303 bags recycled was taken over 240 trips, the second-highest number of litter picks in Scotland after Renfrewshire.
School children's effort huge
Primary pupils in the area were key in recording such a high refuse collection total, with schools in Dumfries and Galloway taking the top three spots in the 'Spring Clean' South Scotland Schools League.
These schools were Shawhead Primary, Lewsalt Primary and Kirkcolm Primary.
Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Chair of Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said: “This campaign has gone from strength to strength with exceptional motivation and determination from our communities who refuse to let litter spoil this beautiful region.
"The good work being done by so many inspirational individuals has clearly been heard as the number of people getting involved rose daily.
“The impact of lifting 1885 bags over the 4-week campaign will have impacted nature and environment immeasurably and I would like to thank every single person who took part and supported the campaign.”
Future looking bright
Vice Chair of Communities Committee, Councillor Jackie McCamon said: “Our communities never cease to amaze. Our young people in particular have engaged well with this campaign with over 50 schools taking part in the campaign.
"With Climate change being a priority for Dumfries and Galloway Council it is key that young people are educated in the effects of littering and how this effects our environment."
She added: "The future is looking very positive with so many young people engaging in Keeping Scotland Beautiful Eco Schools programme and working with the councils community safety education programmes.”