Worcester City Council is offering e-vouchers worth £20 to the first 50 Worcester residents who post photos of themselves out litter picking in the run-up to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The competition is open to all residents as well as community groups, charities and businesses based in the city. The litter pick must take place in a public space in the city – i.e. open land, a park, street, waterside, road or path. The photo must be posted on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, including the hashtag #LoveWorcester, between 16 and 31 May 2022.
Prizes will be awarded to the first 50 people who post an image using #LoveWorcester which complies with the competition rules. See the full rules here.
Winners will be offered a £20 choice of e-voucher: either a National Garden or eco-home gift voucher.
The Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Stephen Hodgson, said: "We're all proud of our city and we can all do our bit to keep it looking neat and tidy. With so many street parties and celebrations planned for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, it seemed a great time to launch this competition, encouraging people to post pictures of themselves litter-picking with the hashtag #LoveWorcester between 16 and 31 May, and make sure Worcester is looking its best in time for the celebrations."
The headteacher of Perry Wood Primary and Nursery School, Suzanne Beston, said she backed the clean-up initiative and would be running litter-picking competitions within the school too.
She said: "Our curriculum ensures that all children experience outdoor learning and have time to think about how to improve and protect their environment, always understanding why this is important in our lives. We're excited to support the #LoveWorcester competition and we'll be encouraging people to take part between 16 and 31 May."
Litter-picking safety advice:
Assess ground/weather conditions. Avoid slopes if the ground is very wet and always be aware of your surroundings.
Wear sturdy footwear and gloves.
Use a strong waste sack.
Do not reach into areas where you have poor visibility and be careful when reaching into areas of undergrowth.
Always use a litter-picker or hand tools. Ensure the tools are working correctly and take regular breaks.
If possible put glass bottles etc in a cardboard box or bucket.
Do not try to collect from roads or water bodies.
Do not overfill the bag with litter, ensure it is possible to carry easily in one hand. Do not carry the bag across your back. If available use a hoop ring. Do not drag the bag on the floor.
If you are in a group, make sure people work within eyesight. If you are on your own, it's good to let someone know where you are going and how long you will be.
Please do not pick up broken glass or other sharp objects. If you find needles, please report to the City Council at www.worcester.gov.uk/report-it or call 01905 722233
