Downpatrick community spruce-up takes place

Downpatrick community spruce-up takes place

9 November 2016

MEMBERS of local community group Tosú Úr have hosted a community clean up in Downpatrick.

They were joined by local families and young people in Kennedy Square and Lynn Doyle for the litter pick which was supported County Down Rural Community Network and Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

The team of volunteers collected several bags of rubbish which were  taken away by council staff following the clean-up.  

Members of the group have since pledged to monitor litter in the estates and, with the help of the young people, encourage more families and households to get involved.

Dave Stavely, chairman of Tosú Úr, said he was delighted with the number of young people who turned out to help. 

“This is a great start to helping keep on top of the litter problem in our community,” he said.

“Both estates are used by members of the public as access routes to the town centre and we hope that they too will take care not to litter. 

“We now hope that the council will follow through with clearing the drains and sweeping along footpaths.”

The young people who assisted with the clean-up will be rewarded with a trip and are currently deciding what they would like to do.  

Local community development officer Ann Grant said she was delighted by the work and said the young people would be rewarded with a day trip for young people and their families. 

“This will hopefully be something we can repeat in the spring if the families involved keep up the good work,” she said.