This is a pick up!

Nov 1 2007 by Gary Marsh, Cynon Valley Leader

IT WAS all hands on deck when 17 children came together to clean up a Cynon Valley housing estate.

The Tre Telynog Environmental Group organised a litter pick to get the Cwmbach estate shipshape for the autumn.

The children, aged six to 11, picked up rubbish from the streets and green areas, and also organised a special rubbish collection with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.

Mark Gillette, chairman of the Environmental Group, said: “We are tying to show the children a different way of doing things.

“We use a ‘time bank’ system, which means the children get credits for the time they spend tidying up – so a three-hour litter pick gives three credits,” he said.

“Credits can then be exchanged for trips and activities.”

According to Mr Gillette, the scheme has had a positive effect.

“Once it is clean, we notice people are less likely to just drop litter,” he said.

“We are looking to expand the project now with a garden project and recycling scheme.”

The group has had support from Janet Jones, performance manager of Cynon Taf Housing Association, who came along to the litter pick.

It also had the backing of local PCSOs, RCT Wastebusters and the council’s street cleansing department.

The group has received donations from Interlink (£492), Aberdare Ford (£25) and Red Dragon Radio (£2,979).

“Schemes like this get the kids involved and make them aware what can be done for their futures,” said Mr Gillette.