First stop Sidney Sussex, Cleethorpes, as volunteers get cracking on big litter pick-up

                         

A brief pause, then it's back to work in Sidney Sussex park for James (fifth left) and volunteers  

A NEW spruce-up initiative has been unveiled by North East Lincolnshire Council.

It has teamed up with James Ellott - the Canoe River Cleaner - to help keep the streets of the borough clean.

James  has been helping keep clean the River Freshney and streets around the borough for almost five years since being furloughed during Covid.

His latest NELC-backed initiative focuses on six key wards and will involve clearing gulleys, litter picking and much more with the aim of "making a noticeable difference to residents' everyday lives".

The first event was  held in Sidney Sussex park, Cleethorpes. 

Cleaning Freeston Street, Lovett Street and Barcroft Street, the 12-strong group removed a large amount of litter including cans, glass bottles and discarded food packaging.

In the coming weeks, James will also be hosting a number of educational sessions with local schools and members of the community.

Says James: "Our borough is a much better place when it’s cleaner.

"There are many people who want to make a real difference, and this partnership shows how keen people are to stimulate civic pride."