Hundreds of local volunteers will be out and about this weekend giving the New Forest a spring clean.
Events will be taking place across the New Forest to tie in with The Great British Spring Clean, a national campaign led by Keep Britain Tidy.
Launching the events in Milford on Sea, representatives from New Forest District Council, Forestry Commission, New Forest National Park Authority and Milford on Sea Parish Council were keen to encourage people to get involved.
There are lots of litter picks to choose from, ranging from Lepe Country Park on the coast, to Blackfield on the Waterside to the National Trust’s Northern Commons.
Holding the events in early spring allows people pick litter from the Open Forest without disturbing rare ground nesting birds.
You can get involved in these spring cleans and many more by finding an open event near you at www.keepbritaintidy.org.
Cllr Barry Rickman, Leader of New Forest District Council, said: “I am so proud of the people that get involved each year with these community litter pick events – nearly 500 people are signed up so far and still counting.”
Edward Heron, Deputy Chairman of New Forest National Park Authority, said: “The onset of spring is the perfect time for us all to come together to spruce up the New Forest. I hope lots of people will join us this weekend to ensure the National Park is in tip-top condition for residents, visitors and free roaming ponies.”
Bruce Rothnie, Deputy Surveyor of the Forestry Commission, said: “We all have a responsibility to keep the New Forest tidy, and make sure this wonderful part of the world is cared for. Community campaigns like the annual Spring Clean give everyone the chance to improve our great outdoors and protect our wildlife.”
The New Forest Spring Clean is supported by the Commoners Defence Association and Verderers of the New Forest.