Special litter pick to end civic year

Blaby District Council Chairman Councillor Cheryl Cashmore celebrated the end of her civic year with a special staff litter pick.

Cllr Cashmore, who is a regular litter picker with the South Leicestershire Litter Wombles, led the group event from the Council depot in Whetstone towards the Foxhunter roundabout.

By the end of the event, which involved fellow Councillors, Council staff and Litter Womble members, the team had collected more than 21 bags of grot.

The Council supports the Litter Wombles and other volunteer pickers with equipment and collection of filled rubbish bags.

Anyone can get involved by contacting the Council at Litter Picking

Cllr Cashmore said: "I’ve been a member of the Litter Wombles for three years and regularly go out on litter picks. It can be hard work but it’s really satisfying knowing you are doing something practical to help our local environment and make the District a nicer place to live.

"During our picks, myself and my fellow Wombles have come across all kinds of items which have been discarded, everything from the everyday drink's bottles thrown out of car windows to clothing, toys and even money – or Wombling wages as we call it. We even found a gun two years ago which we handed over to the police. It’s mind-boggling what people will just throw away without a thought.

Cheryl added: "It would be wonderful if us Wombles weren’t needed, but the reality is we are and I’d urge anyone who can spare a few hours of their time to join us and make Blaby District a better place to be. Even if you can’t get involved, being more mindful of our environment and not dropping litter or picking up any litter you may come across all helps."

Cllr Cashmore stands down as Council Chairman this month and Cllr Nick Chapman will be the next Chairman for 2024-25 with the Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance chosen as his charity for the year. 

Councillor Cheryl Cashmore
Portfolio Holder for Health, Leisure, Climate and Economic Development