Meet the Winchester Litter Pickers
The Winchester Litter Pickers group has been running for nearly 30 years, operated by a brilliant bunch of volunteers who, supported by council grants and equipment, get together regularly to carry out picks across the district.
We had a chat with volunteers Elaine, Jill and Michelle about their work at a recent litter pick in Weeke. Elaine, who has been involved for over ten years, said: “We’re a very loyal band and we meet every week by the railway station and have other organised meet ups in various locations throughout the year. The person who is lead for the week, which is me today, gives a short safety briefing and discusses areas of particular need.”
The group adds any glass they find to local bottle banks and also collects aluminium cans for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance charity appeal. After carrying out the pick, they often meet for a coffee and a chat.
Jill, who has been volunteering for almost 12 years since she retired, appreciates the companionship. She said: “I recently experienced a family tragedy and everyone in the group has been so supportive. We really do get a lot out of it in addition to the litter collecting. It’s so important to socialise especially if you’re on your own or live alone as I do. A lot of people do thank us for what we’re doing as they’re passing, which is lovely.”
Elaine continues: “People usually smile and want to know a bit more about what we’re doing. We would love to hear from anyone who would like to join us.”
Michelle adds: “I was always complaining about litter and then I thought, well I should get involved and actually do something. Now I know every alleyway in Winchester. The amount of unused food we find is really surprising and I found a smartphone once. We often find vapes and discarded syringes and we know the procedure for dealing with items like this – the council assists us with their disposal.”
The group were joined at this pick by Cllr James Batho from the St Barnabas Ward who has attended some of the litter picks since Elaine first contacted him when he was standing to be elected a few years ago.
To find out more about the Winchester Litter Pickers please email Tidywinchester@gmail.com or head to their page on the Cleanup UK site.
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