Great British Spring Clean a success

The annual two-week effort to rid the streets of rubbish saw events, supported by councillors, staff and equipment from Newcastle City Council, organised across the city.

'Great to see so many people helping their communities'

Cllr Ged Bell, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and transport, said: “From Blakelaw to Benwell, Heaton to Newbiggin Hall, Kenton, Jesmond, Gosforth, Fenham, Denton, Kingston Park, and the city centre it has been wonderful to see so many people giving their time to benefit their communities.

“We know that the vast majority of people hate litter just as much as we do, and would never dream of marring where they live by dropping things like pop bottles, crisp packets, sweet wrappers, fast food packaging, cigarette butts or chewing gum.

“However unfortunately there are inconsiderate individuals who do and while, as a council, we spend a huge amount of time and effort, and millions of pounds, to keep our city clean, with the best will in the world we cannot be everywhere at once.

“We thank every resident who show such civic pride and play their part in helping us to tackle the effects of those that would blight our neighbourhoods with rubbish.

“And though the Great British Spring Clean is over, the never ending battle with litter is not – If you want to do your bit and organise a litter pick, get in touch with our waste and recycling service to request the support you need.”

Request support for a litter pick

Groups can request support, the loan of equipment or that bags of rubbish from litter picks be collected by emailing hello@yourcityyourhome.co.uk or you can register as a litter picker by using the Your Local Services system online at envirocall.newcastle.gov.uk

And anyone in the city who helps clean up their community is encouraged to share their good work on social media, using the hashtag #YourCityYourHome, so it can be celebrated and to send a clear message to litter louts, #DontBeATosser.