VARIOUS events took place in and around the town last week as the people of Westbury joined in with the nationwide campaign, ‘Clean for the Queen.’
‘Clean for The Queen’ is a campaign to clear up Britain in time for the Queen’s 90th birthday this year. Volunteers across the country were spring cleaning their local areas in the run up to the Queen’s birthday celebrations, which will be held this summer.
Westbury led the way with many organised litter picking events taking place in the town and surrounding villages.
Westbury community engagement manager Liam Cripps said, “Everyone who has volunteered for this project should be incredible proud of what they’ve achieved. A huge thank you to everyone who has been involved, it’s a real testimony of how fantastic the Westbury community is.
“I think those who have seen first hand the amount of litter we’ve collected have recognised that the environment is everyone’s responsibility and it is up to us to ensure that we keep our community clean and tidy.
“I do believe there is an element of frustration with people that they’ve had to do this. The sheer volume of litter that’s been collected is a shame and it highlights a problem which may not have been obvious before.
“We’ve collected all sorts of things; a wellie boot, a Christmas tree, a bread board and more disappointly, drug paraphernalia which will be reported.
“It would be great if this wasn’t just a one-off and if anyone would like to start a regular litter picking group, then please do get in contact with me.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to everyone for an amazing effort. Also to the landscape group who provided all equipment for free. Well done Westbury.”
Leigh Park Community Centre with Westbury Shed and local residents collected 22 bags, Westbury First Scouts, 24 bags, Heywood and Hawkeridge WI 12 bags, Edington Parish Council 15 bags, Westbury Leigh school 40 bags and Westbury Juniors are yet to confirm numbers.
