Residents are encouraged to sign up and pledge their time to help keep Medway tidy as part of the Great British Spring Clean.

We are supporting the country’s biggest community clear up for the eighth year in a row, which takes place from Friday, 17 March to Sunday, 2 April. The fantastic initiative is run by Keep Britain Tidy.

Litter picks will be taking place across Medway over the course of the campaign, with 24 already confirmed. Residents can join, either individually or in a group, to help improve the neighbourhoods, parks and open spaces on their own doorsteps.

We will lend volunteers litter picking equipment if needed, as well as arranging for the removal of the rubbish volunteers collect. Residents who want to borrow equipment can get in touch by emailing eet@medway.gov.uk.

Last year more than 300 residents volunteered and collected 507 bags of litter, which weighed more than three tonnes – that’s the weight of a rhino!

Cllr Phil Filmer, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Frontline Services, said: “This is an amazing campaign and something we are proud to support for the eighth year running. Clean and tidy communities are not only great for the environment, but help promote a sense of pride in our local areas. Council staff and our colleagues at Medway Norse work hard all year round to help keep Medway clean and tidy and I would encourage residents to help do their bit.”

To find out more about the Great British Spring Clean and sign up, visit: KeepBritainTidy.org