LITTLE litter-pickers have been learning all about the need to respect the environment by venturing outdoors and doing their bit to clean-up Colchester.

Lorraine Gathercole, who is a registered childminder, runs Squirrels Childcare Services, based in Myland, Colchester.

She has been taking children on trips to Highwoods Country Park where they read story books about recycling plastic and wood.

Armed with bags and each wearing a hi-vis, the tiny tidying team have also been conducting litter-picks in the woods and along surrounding pavements.

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The considerate youngsters have been using miniature litter-pickers to collect rubbish during a recent excursion.

Lorraine, who cares for youngsters aged between two and three years old, said: “I am teaching them the importance of taking care of their environment and to recycle where ever possible.

“The children are learning it is wrong to drop litter and it can be harmful to wildlife.

“As well as the importance of respecting our environment the children are using the litter pickers to strengthen their gross motor skills, concentration and co-ordination, while working as a team.

“I strongly believe it is never too early to educate young children and to protect their world.”