A CRISP winter chill wasn’t enough to deter a team of apprentices and volunteers from taking part in the first Community Action Day of 2017.
The One Planet Pioneers event saw more than 30 young people aged 16 to 24 joining forces to improve a section of Ormesby Beck and Teesdale walkway.
The project is one of 31 UK wide projects forming the Our Bright Future programme which is funded by the Big Lottery Fund.
The Beck is an important tributary which feeds in to Middlesbrough’s River Tees and is site of the medieval port of Middlesbrough.
Community Action Days (CAD) are a series of monthly events intended to forge closer working links between local communities, organisations and friends groups.
The first CAD took place on Friday, January 27 and saw young people teaming up with River Tees Rediscovered project staff, Middlesbrough Council, the Boro Becks friends group, Askham Bryan College, Lingfield Choosing Pathways, the Environment Agency and Middlesbrough Environment City.
And now One Planet Pioneers are have joined forces with the Friends of Linthorpe Cemetery and Nature Reserve for a second CAD on Friday, February 24.
Once again they’d like to hear from young people, along with their friends and family interested in helping to clear leaves, overgrown foliage and ivy that is obstructing memorial and grave stones in this historic green space.
Volunteers are asked to meet outside the Hebrew Prayer House, off Roman Road, Linthorpe from 9.30am with the day due to run until 3pm – all attending are asked to wear sturdy footwear and appropriate warm clothing for the outdoors.
The Friends will provide refreshments on the day and all tools and gloves will also be provided.
One Planet Pioneers Officer Nicky Morgan said: “Community Action Days are a great chance for everyone to get involved, and help to improve where they live.
“Over the coming months we’re looking to work with communities across the town to help them improve their neighbourhoods – no task will be too small.
“It’s all about bringing the community together, young and old alike, learning new skills, gaining valuable work experience and meeting like-minded people.”
Our Bright Future Programme Manager Cath Hare said: “Our Bright Future projects like One Planet Pioneers are the perfect opportunity to get involved with community action if you’ve never done it before.
“Trust me, it’ll not only make a difference to the environment but also give you great experiences, skills and a real feel good factor!”
For more information or to discuss potential future Community Action days, call Nicky or Casper on 01642 579839/579832 or email Nicky on nicky.morgan@menvcity.org.uk