DOZENS of Islanders helped clear rubbish from the roads and beaches yesterday during the first annual ecoJersey Parish Clean-Up organised jointly by the JEP and Bailiwick Express.
Volunteers grabbed grabbers and bags before heading out to clear areas in eight parishes.
The most common items found were cigarette butts, plastic and glass bottles.
Volunteers in St Clement were shocked at the amount of broken glass and dog poo that had been left on the beach around La Mare slip.
And those taking part in the St Helier litter pick said they could not believe how much rubbish had been left from events in the People’s Park.
It was the fourth annual ecoJersey Parish Clean-Up, but the first to be organised by All Island Media, the parent company of the JEP and Bailiwick Express.
JEP editor Andy Sibcy said: ‘It was great to be out doing something so positive.
‘I was stationed at La Mare slip in St Clement with volunteers from the parish and sponsors JE among those taking part. It was striking how many cigarette butts there were to pick up.’
He added: ‘A huge thank-you to everyone who took part.
‘People were so appreciative and, despite the fag ends, it was really encouraging how little litter there was.’
Bailiwick Express editor Fiona Potigny, who was based in St Helier for the clean-up, said: ‘As well as showcasing Islanders’ commitment to preserving our coastline and natural areas, the Parish Clean-Up was also an important reminder of how beautiful our urban public spaces can be if we all play our part.
‘Many of those who joined us commented on how areas in town we so often discount for socialising, like the People’s Park, could be perfect picnic spots, were it not for the scourge of cigarette butts, vapes and bottle lids. A huge thank you to all those who turned out to help.’
The event was sponsored by local businesses Affinity Private Wealth, the Channel Islands Coop, Jersey Electricity, Quilter Cheviot and Rathbones.
