Dates are set for springtime litter-picking events in Wick
Dates have been set for this year’s springtime litter-picking events in and around Wick.
The Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council (RBWCC) will again be leading local efforts for Spring Clean Scotland, running from March 21 to April 21.
The annual campaign is run by the environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.
Allan Bruce is vice-chairman of RBWCC and organiser of the town’s Spring Clean Scotland activities.
In a message this week to existing volunteers, and potential new ones, he said: “Following three successful years, the community council once again is leading a series of organised events during this year’s Spring Clean Scotland.
“We have enlisted the help of Wick Paths Group and between us we will be holding organised litter-pick events during the campaign dates. Why not come along and join us?”
The first session will focus on the area around the Grizzly Park and South Head on Sunday, March 23. Volunteers are asked to meet at the old herring mart at the harbour.
The second litter-pick will be at the airport industrial estate and nearby forest area on Sunday, April 6, meeting behind Sutherland Brothers’ premises.
The concluding event, on Sunday, April 20, will cover general areas around Wick, meeting at the car park opposite the Norseman Hotel.
All three will have a 10am start time.
Mr Bruce added: “We would be delighted to see local businesses, schools and community groups get involved, either by attending an organised event or by organising one of your own.
“Together we can make a real difference in our community.”
In 2024, over 45,000 volunteers took part in Spring Clean Scotland across all 32 local authorities. More than 150 joined in a series of three clean-up events in and around Wick, filling almost 250 black bags with rubbish.
It added up to approximately 318 hours of voluntary work.
Speaking at last month’s RBWCC meeting, Mr Bruce told fellow community councillors: “It has certainly made a huge difference to the town over the last few years.
“We’re looking at a couple of new initiatives, working alongside businesses and schools. It is growing a bit of momentum now and I’m keen to keep it going.”
In September last year, Mr Bruce was awarded a Clean Up Scotland Hero award by Keep Scotland Beautiful for his efforts to keep the town litter-free.
