This spring, people across East Suffolk will be rewarded for showing love for the environment they live in.

A new incentive-based community litter-pick scheme called 'Love East Suffolk', has been launched by Suffolk Coastal and Waveney District Councils to encourage more volunteers to help keep their environment clean.

A financial reward of £20 will be offered to each community group that carries out litter picks; as well as them being entered into a prize draw for a £200 reward, which has been funded through Norse.

The scheme ties in with the 'Clean for the Queen' campaign which aims to involve the community in cleaning up Britain in time for the Queen's 90th birthday.

Cllr Stephen Ardley, cabinet member for Operational Partnerships at Waveney District Council, said: 'We're inviting new and existing community groups of volunteers to register to help clean up around East Suffolk who will not only be rewarded with pride, but also receive a small financial reward to thank them for their support.

'Groups will then be entered into a prize draw with the chance of winning £200 to support a local community group or charity.'

Cllr Carol Poulter, cabinet member for the Green Environment at Suffolk Coastal District Council, said: 'We've already had a number of community groups sign up to the scheme so we're looking forward to having good support throughout East Suffolk.

'Keeping our beautiful county litter-free is not only good for local residents, but is a great way to bring the community together and can help improve the habitats of local wildlife.'

Both Suffolk Coastal Norse and Waveney Norse can provide volunteers with equipment including sacks and disposable gloves, and also hire sticks and hoops to groups on request. Norse will also arrange for gathered litter to be collected.

For further information visit www.suffolkcoastal.gov.uk/yourdistrict/envprotection/love-east-suffolk.

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