Farnham’s army of volunteers was out in force last weekend (Saturday 22 October) to keep the town looking neat and tidy by taking part in the Town Council’s autumn Big Pick.

Over 40 children, young people and adults worked together to spend a few hours clearing litter from areas in and around the town. Staff and councillors from Farnham Town Council were joined by individual residents and members of local community organisations.

Volunteers, who either took part in the community Big Pick or organised their own Autumn Big Pick, included representatives from AMYA UK Tilford, Weyside Rotary, Farnham Ramblers, Hale Scouts, the Bourne Conservation Group, Rowledge Residents’ Association, Bloomin’ Litter Pickers, the Farnham in Bloom community group, plus Net Technical Solutions, a sponsor of Farnham in Bloom. In addition to the litter picking activities, volunteers from The Bourne Conservation Group were also out and about tidying up the flowerbeds and planting bulbs for the next season.

Councillor Stephen Hill, Lead Member for Community Enhancement took part in the Big Pick and said: “We organise these litter picks in spring and autumn to keep the town in tip top condition. We’re lucky to have so many local people who care as much about Farnham as we do. I’d like to thank everyone who gave up their time to help.

“It was great to come together as a community and get out in the fresh air. Many hands made light work, making for a fun atmosphere and meaning we could do a really good job for the town. We run Big Picks twice a year so if you would like to join in next time or if you know an area that could benefit, do get in touch with us at Farnham Town Council.”

The Town Council provided black sacks, gloves and litter pickers and removed the rubbish at the end of the day. The volunteers worked in teams to cover the area around the station, Station approach, Gostrey Meadow, Hickley’s Corner, East Street, St. Andrew’s Church, the Farnham Maltings’ car park, Central car park, Castle Street and Long Garden Walk.

In all, they collected 18 sacks of rubbish which included a collection of pint glasses, part of a child’s seat, a rake in almost new condition, nitrogen oxide canisters and some car parts. “While it’s disappointing that a small number of people drop litter in the first place, I know all the volunteers would agree that it’s enormously satisfying to see an area cleaned up,” says Councillor Hill.

To find out about Big Picks, contact lara.prior@farnham.gov.uk or follow the council on Twitter or on Facebook.