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Volunteers In Ryde Litter Pick Success As 60 Bags Of Rubbish Collected

The streets of Ryde are looking a little tidier this week thanks to the efforts of local volunteers.

Undeterred by morning showers, a crowd of 45 volunteers joined Friends of Ryde Town Hall (FORTH), the Ryde Business Association and Ryde Town Council to pick litter in and around Ryde town centre yesterday (Monday).
 
As part of The Big Help Out day of service, their efforts saw 60 bags of rubbish filled and disposed of by Ryde Town Council staff.
 
 
FORTH Chair Zoë Barker said:
 
“All the volunteers were so upbeat and we all really enjoyed pitching in. Thank you to everyone who helped out.
 
“This could become an annual event on or around May 14, marking the anniversary of the Town Hall's foundation."
 
Volunteers included Ryde Mayor Michael Lilley and Ryde Town Councillors Diana Conyers and Richard May.
 
The Star Coffee & Ale House, Costa Coffee, Pickle & Dill, The Wonky Goat and Crepe Lovers provided free coffee vouchers for everyone who took part.
 
Matt Whittaker, Director of Keert was on hand to help move heavy rubbish sacks to the collection point via a delivery bike.
 
Ryde Library and Ryde Town Council provided hand-held litter pickers and bag hoops.
 
Co-op Ryde donated plastic sacks and Co-op Member Pioneer for Ryde and Sandown Donna Newnham provided high quality gloves. Hover Travel loaned high-vis vests used on the day.
 
Rob Madigan, owner of The Star Coffee & Ale House and Chairman of the RBA, added:
 
“Ryde Business Association was very happy to be involved in this community event.
 
"It was great to meet so many people of all ages willing to give of their time.
 
"What a brilliant way to finish off a weekend of celebrations.”

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