A powerful display of community spirit kicked off 2024 in Rossendale, as more than forty dedicated locals gave up their New Year's Day morning to clean up their town.
A Chilly Start for a Vital Cause
Despite the cold temperatures, a sunny morning saw volunteers gather outside Rawtenstall's Post Office at 10.30am. They were equipped for the task by organisers, receiving high-visibility jackets, litter pickers, and bags for collection. The event, coordinated by Chris Blomerley of Civic Pride Rossendale, strategically deployed teams across different parts of the town to ensure a thorough clean-up.
The atmosphere was both purposeful and social, with a mix of families, seasoned volunteers, and residents—some even accompanied by their dogs—working together to clear streets and public spaces.
Surprising Finds and Year-Round Dedication
The haul from the morning's efforts highlighted the varied nature of litter plaguing the area. Alongside common items like cigarette butts and disposable vapes, volunteers collected discarded fireworks from New Year celebrations and even a larger, unexpected item: a leaf blower.
While this annual event brings people together, the fight against litter in Rawtenstall is a continuous one. The town benefits immensely from the dedication of volunteer Keith Ormerod, who picks litter most days of the year. In the past twelve months alone, he has filled more than 410 bags with rubbish and recyclables, and reports larger fly-tipped items regularly—even spending time cleaning up on Christmas Day.
A Valley-Wide Effort to Stay Tidy
The New Year's Day initiative serves to bolster these relentless individual efforts and keep community pride high. Civic Pride Rossendale hopes that visible clean-up actions will help deter future littering behaviour.
The organisation's work extends beyond Rawtenstall, collaborating with volunteer groups in Waterfoot, Cowpe, Crawshawbooth, Bacup, Stacksteads, Haslingden, and Helmshore to maintain a litter-free Rossendale Valley.
For residents inspired to contribute, opportunities abound. Whether interested in litter picking or helping to maintain local gardens, you can find out more by emailing info@civic-pride.org.uk or visiting the website at www.civic-pride.org.uk.
