believe housing supports Esh Winning litter pick to build pride and safety

Volunteers in Esh Winning came together for a community litter pick to help care for their village and surrounding countryside.

Organised by Esh Winning Residents Association, the event saw around a dozen people spend Sunday afternoon (19 April) clearing rubbish from green spaces and walkways, including part of the popular Deerness Valley Railway Path.

The group organises three to four litter picks each year to tackle litter, raise environmental awareness and boost pride in the village.

The clean-up was supported by a £1,000 community grant from County Durham-based housing association believe housing, which funded essential equipment including high visibility vests, litter pickers and hoops.

Kimberley Smith, a Community Investment Coordinator at believe housing, said: “Litter can spoil the environment, damage wildlife habitats and put local waterways at risk, and it also affects how people feel about where they live.

“We’re pleased to have supported the volunteers behind Sunday’s litter pick with a community grant to help them continue their work.

“Their ongoing efforts make a real difference, improving the local environment, supporting residents’ health and wellbeing, and helping people feel safe and proud of their community.”

Durham County Council collected and disposed of 18 bags of waste gathered on the day. The event forms part of the council’s annual Big Spring Clean campaign, which sees residents, community groups and the council tackle litter across the county and runs until Monday, 4 May.