A COMMUNITY group are hoping to instil some civic pride in keeping Northwich free from litter.

Working with Transition Northwich, a group of local residents joined in a litter pick organised by Lee Siddall of the Winnington and Castle Residents Voice on Sunday (August 9). Lee said he had noticed an increase in litter since the lockdown and that he simply wants people to dispose of their litter more responsibly.

He said: "I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who helped make the litter pick a success.

"We managed to do a litter pick in large areas of Castle, around town, Furry Woods and Chinkers Field. It was great to see so many people getting involved.

"Special thanks to Graham Emmett and Alison Allum for helping organise this along with Northwich Town Council for providing pickers.

"Our short term goal is to organise more of the litter picks in order to promote the great British spring clean that starts on September 11 and runs until 17. We hope to inspire as many members of our community as possible to take part and set a good example to our younger residents."

As well as trying to instil more responsible behaviour in existing and future residents of the town, the long term goal of the project is to try and identify certain types of local businesses who are contributing more than others to litter pollution.

He added: "Once we have enough data we will pass it on to our local council in order that they will be able to work with businesses to find ways in how best to help them reduce their litter pollution. We would also like to introduce a scheme that would identify business that are excellent at recycling and mitigating against litter pollution with a view that it will also reduce their carbon footprint.

"When I was young, it was all about 'Keep Britain Tidy' and I want a similar scheme that instils a pride in the community here in Northwich."

Mr Siddall said he would very much welcome more volunteers to the next litter pick and hoped both the town council and Cheshire West and Chester will work with them on achieving the groups goals.

He added: "We understand that getting business up and running after COVID-19 is high in local governments priorities, however we would like the discussion to start as soon as possible."

If you would like any further information on the work of the group, you can find them on Facebook.