If you’re keen to do your bit for our planet, you may be interested to know that Ruddington has launched its very own ‘Plastic Free Communities’ initiative – in partnership with ‘Surfers Against Sewage’.
The marine conservation charity is joining forces with a network of communities across the UK to tackle throw-away plastic. To kickstart the initiative here, you’re invited to take part in a ‘community litter pick’ this Saturday (9th October) organised by Alex Preston, the co-owner of village eco-shop The Bottle Top.
Alex is also a volunteer member of Ruddington Village Centre Partnership (RVCP) and started work on the project back in 2020 after finding out about Surfers Against Sewage through a blog online – and being inspired by all the work being done in small communities to tackle the global problem of plastic pollution. The previous year, The Bottle Top had participated in ‘Plastic Free July’ for the first time.
After registering with SAS Plastic Free Communities movement, Alex has been working on pulling together key organisations such as RVCP and local businesses in the area to put in place a five point plan. The objectives include setting up a steering group, involving local schools with a view to enrolling them on to the Plastic Free Schools Programme, getting local council commitment and working with local businesses and community groups to reduce the amount of single use plastics they use.
Alex says: “ I am so pleased to say that Ruddington is well on its way to becoming certified as plastic free. I have been overwhelmed with the support from members of the community, local groups and a number of fabulous businesses. Its been heartwarming to see how keen people are to get involved and want to make a real difference to the local community.”
She continues: “With a bit of team work and collaboration I have no doubt we will achieve Plastic Free status is no time. The litter pick is a great way to get involved by stopping unwanted litter making its way into our rivers and oceans. Not only will you be contributing to Plastic Free Communities but keeping the village clean and tidy too. It’s a great thing to do for all the family and a real opportunity to get social with other members of the community, as well.”
Hear Alex talking about ‘Plastic Free Communities’ this Friday morning (October 8th) at around 10.20am on BBC Radio Nottingham with Mark Dennison. You can listen afterwards on BBC Sounds >>HERE<< from 23m 49s in.
Chair of RVCP, Mike Ader, adds: “This is clearly a hugely important cause and I’m delighted Ruddington is so actively involved thanks to the hard work and dedication of Alex and a number of other people. The Litter Pick event is a great opportunity for Ruddington residents to come together and collaborate to help not only the village but also this important cause.”
Justin Lucas and Peter Lyons-Lewis of Ruddington Parish Council have echoed Mike Ader’s words – and say the Parish Council is fully behind and supportive of all activities that lead to improvements to “the look and feel” of the village, as well as contributing to “greening” of Ruddington.
Ruddington’s monthly Village Market is on board with the initiative and is working with its stall holders to remove unnecessary single use plastic from the market. Other local businesses including Debbie Bryan, The Pet Pantry, The Splitscreen Coffee Company, Morton’s Café Deli and Bakery, The Frame Breakers and Compound Gym are also participating.
The Plastic Free Ruddington Community Litter Pick is happening from 1pm – 4pm this Saturday. To get involved all you need to do is turn up at The Bottle Top on High Street any time during the event to collect the equipment and do your bit. Alex will be on hand to answer any questions about the Plastic Free Community Initiative – and is offering a discount in store for all participants as a small ‘thank you’ for taking part.
In the meantime, to find out more, you can find the ‘Plastic Free Ruddington’ Facebook page >>HERE<<. Alternatively get in touch via The Bottle Top or Ruddington Village Centre Partnership‘s Facebook pages.
