Our first spruce-up is a green success (From Echo)

Our first spruce-up is a green success

2:35pm Saturday 3rd November 2007

• Print
• Email
• Share

SUPPORTERS of a new environmental hit squad joined forces with councillors to clean up woodland in Thundersley.

Norman Ladzrie, Castle Point's deputy mayor and Pam Challis, council leader, rolled up their sleeves alongside volunteers during the event on Thundersley Great Common.

Fledgling environmental and conservation group, the Greengrid Taskforce, chose to tidy the site as its first project in the borough.

The team is part of Groundwork South Essex, an independent environmental charity which organises green projects within the community.

Volunteers spent a morning clearing scrub and overhanging branches from footpaths.

They also helped remove discarded litter to make the area safer for wildlife and visitors.

The council-managed heathland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and contains many rare and interesting plants.

Jenny Price, Greengrid Taskforce officer, said: "This was the first event in Castle Point, though we have done some projects in Thurrock.

"We cleared pathways to make them lighter and safer. We're hoping to go back again next month to do some more litter picking and path clearance."

Mr Ladzrie added: "I took my dog along and we spent the morning tidying up the area, making the paths safer and more open.

"As the projects evolve I hope more and more people get involved. It gives people the chance to get out in the fresh air and is a worthwhile cause."

The day was organised as part of the Castle Point Volunteer Service's Make A Difference campaign.

The taskforce is calling for more volunteers to join them on their next project.

To find out more about getting involved in future events, call 01268 752368.

• Print
• Email
• Share