Whilst many residents were sheltering from the effects of Storm Eunice, 13 hardy litter pickers braved the streets to once again ensure Glossop puts its best foot forward.

This was the second outing of the Glossop Big Pick - the town’s biggest community litter picking group - since sessions resumed after an enforced pause as a result of Covid-19.

The group were determined to not let the weather stop the activity happening. So, at 10am on Saturday morning (19 February), the group gathered at The Bureau, collected their bags and litter pickers, and set off to tidy the streets.

Mat Gregory, the group co-ordinator, shared how appreciative he was for those ready to volunteer. 

He said: "It was great to see people still turning up eager to help even though the weather was so poor. Shoppers who were sheltering in the bus stops and in shop doorways made their appreciation with our pickers known. Those sitting on the bus were thinking ‘rather you than me!' 

“Two of our group’s younger litter pickers challenge themselves to bring back the oddest bit of litter they can. After an hour out in the rain and cold, the brother and sister pair returned to The Bureau delighted with their find, a large umbrella that had certainly seen better days.

"Once the big bags of litter collected were placed in a pre-arranged location, to be collected by High Peak Borough Council, the group gathered in The Bureau as usual for a well-needed hot drink, a chance to chat and an opportunity to ring out wet clothing.”

As with previous Glossop Big Picks, all those volunteering on the day are provided with all the equipment such as bags, pickers and gloves along with customised Hi-Vis vests. People are also invited to come into The Bureau for a hot drink and some biscuits or bit of cake and a chat when they return if they would like.

If you would like to volunteer at the next Glossop Big Pick, they take place on the third Saturday of month, the next being Saturday 19 March 2022. Just meet at The Bureau on Henry Street in Glossop for a 10am start.

To find out any more information, you can follow the Big Pick on Facebook by searching 'Glossop Big Pick' or email Matthew@the-bureau.org.uk or GlossopBigPick@gmail.com to join the mailing list. 

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