WE recently organised a community litter pick, and I want to thank not only those who participated but also the volunteers who regularly pick up litter to keep our streets and lanes clean.  

Unfortunately, littering is becoming an increasingly serious issue in our country. I recently read that more than two million pieces of litter are dropped in the UK every day.

Half a million items of litter make their way into the sea from UK rivers. Litter has gone up by 500 per cent since the 1960s! I find it utterly unfathomable and inexcusable.

I've instilled a strong sense of responsibility in my teenage son about this since he was very young. I think he is now even more obsessed than I am about people littering!

I believe a public campaign to raise awareness would be incredibly beneficial and encourage change. Growing up in the '70s, I was inspired by the Wombles and fondly recall my primary school music teacher, who wrote her own songs, writing one about 'finding a bin and putting it in'.

Did you know you can become a community litter picker through Test Valley Borough Council? They will provide you with a litter picker and some bags.

Currently, there are around 700 of us in the Test Valley area. You can find more information on their website. A huge thank you to all 700 of you and the many others who pick up all year round. 

Cllr Sally Yalden, borough councillor for Ampfield and Braishfield,
Fern Hill,
Braishfield

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