LITTER heroes and schools across Colchester are being called upon to help improve the environment on their doorstep by taking part in the Great British Spring Clean.

Running from May 28 to June 13, the project is organised nationally by Keep Britain Tidy and supported locally by Colchester Council.

This year’s campaign will not only see tonnes of litter being removed from our doorsteps, it also aims to rescue thousands of the plastic bottles and aluminium drinks cans which have been thrown on the ground but could be recycled.

Using the three bags full approach, volunteers will be asked to separate the litter they pick into three bags: one for plastic bottles, one for aluminium cans and a third for the rest of the rubbish.

Colchester Council’s Neighbourhood Services team will then collect these bags to ensure they are recycled properly.

They can also support the litter pick by providing bags, hi-vis jackets and loan litterpickers, including long ones for those tricky spots, smaller ones for children and ones specifically designed for use on beaches.

Mike Lilley, Colchester councillor responsible for communities, wellbeing and public safety, said: “I encourage all residents to take part and enjoy the day.

“It’s such a great way to teach family members about caring for the environment.

“I simply cannot understand why people drop litter in the first place. One thing we do know though, is that litter tends to attract more litter, so the sooner it is cleared up the better.

“The council cannot be everywhere, so it is vital we act in partnership with groups to keep our borough clean.”

For more, go to keepbritain tidy.org/gbspringclean