CHESTER residents are being asked to get their hands dirty and help the environment in a riverside clean-up.
Cheshire West and Chester Council have teamed up with Flintshire County Council to arrange The Big Dee Day tomorrow (Friday), when volunteers and members of the council’s Streetscene team will meet to clean up the rubbish and debris washed up on the banks of the River Dee.
All are invited to meet at 9.30am at Cop Park, Sealand Road, to help clear the cycle path of litter and then to tackle the tidal litter accumulated along the river bank.
Litter pickers, gloves and bin bags will be provided.
Cllr Lynn Riley, executive member for community and environment, said: “We know from past experience that this section of the River Dee has a particular problem with rubbish and tidal debris gathering along the edges of the water.
“We are looking for local people on both sides of the border to volunteer a little of their time and join us to help keep their local area clean, tidy and enjoyable for all.”
For further information or to volunteer for The Big Dee Day contact senior Streetscene officer Steve Christie on 0300 123 7026 or email steve.christie@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
The River Dee was recently named one of the UK’s most improved waterways, according to the Environment Agency.
In a list of the country’s Top 10 rivers, the Dee was recognised for its improvement of water quality and river habitats, as well as reduced pollution.
And the River Mersey, once described as ‘an affront to civilised society’, was also named on the list, showing it has transformed its reputation as one of the UK’s worst offending rivers after years of multi-million-pound investment to clean it up.
