Media Releases

RESCUE Environment Event to Clean up Reading

08/02/2010

Press Release

Local people are being urged to look out for open spaces and rivers that need a clean up from litter and get in touch with the RESCUE team to suggest it as a RESCUE venue.

The countdown has started to this year's RESCUE (Reading's Rivers and Environmental Spaces Clean Up) event which will take place over the weekend of 13th and 14th March.

This year teams won't just be litter picking but also hedge and tree planting to 'green' up Reading.

People can take part by either finding some friends who want to help or by joining an organised group in their neighbourhood. Hardworking volunteers could also find themselves on the RESCUE website gallery.

Anyone keen to take part should register with RESCUE. They will be able to find a group working near them or register their own group.

Last year 35 sites around Reading were cleared up by 464 RESCUE volunteers who filled nine skips and 510 bags.

The annual event, which has been running for 21 years, is organised by Reading Borough Council and for the third year, is being sponsored by Thames Water.

Staff from Thames Water, along with businesses around the borough, will be carrying out their own clear up events in the week leading up to RESCUE weekend.

To celebrate RESCUE's 21st birthday there will be a 'RESCUE RECOVERY' event after the weekend. It's being organised by Reading 107FM and Kyocera and there will be awards for some of those who have taken part over the years.

Paul Gittings, Reading's Lead Councillor for Environment and Sustainability, said: "I totally support RESCUE. It's a chance for local people and businesses to work together and really make a difference to some of our parks and tow paths. Last year young people gave Avon Place playground a makeover and this year we have tree planting in addition to litter picking. I encourage anyone who would like to spend some time outside improving Reading's open spaces to get involved."

There's more information on the RESCUE website at www.readingrescue.org.uk, you can also find 'RESCUE 2010' on Facebook or call on 0118 937 2100.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

Photocall – Saturday, February 13th, 1pm. 

1pm, Corner of Holybrook Road and St Saviours Road 

Sally Moore
Tel: 0118 939 0944