IN PICTURES: A mountain of waste picked from River Ribble banks

Around two tonnes of plastic and rubbish has been removed from the River Ribble's banks.
Jonny Walker and Janet JacksonJonny Walker and Janet Jackson
Jonny Walker and Janet Jackson

107 eager environmentalist volunteers from organisations the Ribble Rivers Trust, Surfers Against Sewage, and South Ribble Council met at Howick Cross Lane in Penwortham on Saturday, April 21, before tackling a mountain of waste that had accumulated on over two miles of the south riverbank.

Penwortham resident Richard Hargreaves said: “We have organised a pick in this area for six years now, and was instigated by our member Martin Lucas, who sadly died in 2014.

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Jonny Walker and Janet JacksonJonny Walker and Janet Jackson
Jonny Walker and Janet Jackson
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“With the help of the Ribble Rivers Trust the litter pick has been continued in his memory. The increased numbers attending allowed us to go beyond Savick Brook and clear areas not previously reached.”

Jonny Walker of the Ribble Rivers Trust said: "“A massive thank you and well done to all of the local groups and individuals that turned out on Saturday.

"It was fantastic to see such a wide range of people taking action in their local area. Together we’ve helped to prevent a huge amount of litter from entering the Ribble estuary and the marine environment.

"If anyone wants to find out more about the work we’re doing to improve the Ribble for people and wildlife, or become involved in more events with the Trust search for us online or email [email protected] for more details."

BEFORE: The mountain of waste.BEFORE: The mountain of waste.
BEFORE: The mountain of waste.
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Janet Jackson, the regional representative of both the environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage and Plastic Free Preston, added:

"This is the largest turnout I have seen for a litter pick in Lancashire, well done to the Preston Society and the Ribble Rivers Trust.

"Whilst it is sad that so much pollution is in our midst, I feel inspired that so many people now take action.

"We can all take steps to reduce our plastic usage and working towards Plastic Free Community status locally, we are already making a difference."

The pick followed recent action at Preston Docks where 30 bags of plastic were collected by volunteers, including Friends of the Earth.