Last summer, a broadcast by David Sedaris on his obsession with litter picking caught the imagination of Shirley Lunn. A keen walker herself, she had noticed the growing amount of litter which was spoiling our community. She put a post out on Facebook asking if any-one fancied getting involved, thinking she might get a dozen or so interested. Kelly McKenna was one of those who answered and together with Jem Jones, the third founder, the Spelthorne Litter Pickers group was born.
Fast forward to March 2021 and the group now has 750 members. We spoke to Shirley about the group and about what it is like to be the instigator of such a successful community enterprise.
Her passion, enthusiasm and warmth comes across in bundles. There are many reasons to get involved and much to be gained from being part of this group. As well as civic pride, members talk of the sense of achieve-ment picking litter gives them. Cleaning their local areas and taking pride in their surround-ings is one thing, but it is the feeling of contributing to the greater good, being a part of a group of like minded enthusiastic people, which carries such a sense of achievement and feel good factor. Picking litter is good for mental health! It is well understood that one of the foundations of happiness is altruism. So an activity like picking litter ticks that box. When I asked Shirley if there was any feeling of resentment to the litter louts who don’t share this civic pride she answered “We focus instead on the positives, the love of nature and community and respect for our local area”.
Litter picking appeals to all ages. It respects social distancing and participants are out in the fresh air. It has been a perfect activity during the lockdown restrictions. New friend-ships have been forged and the Facebook group is a little community in itself. Young-sters have got involved, proud to be seen with a litter picker and hi vis vest on. There is a roll of honour for all youngsters and so far there are 91 names on it. The children also receive a personalised certificate signed by the mayor. These are the little litter picker heroes.
The group is well supported by Spelthorne Council who provide green bin bags, litter pickers and hi vis vests emblazoned with Spelthorne Litter Pickers. They also provide crates to the 13 area representatives, so the ever growing numbers of NOS cylinders can be collected, before being taken to be sold as scrap. Money raised goes back into improving awareness of the dangers of inhaling nitrous oxide (NOS). Having this number of eagle eyed litter scouts out there has also helped the council keep on top of fly tipping, which has become more than just a menace.
If you fancy getting involved then please join the Facebook group; Spelthorne Litter Pickers or you can email spelthornelitterpick-ers@spelthorne.gov.uk.
So come on everyone….keeeeeep picking!!