A new litter picking group in Hillingdon has gained over 90 members in just three weeks.

Computer programmer David Posnett, 54, was a member of an Ealing-based litter picking group for a few months before starting the group in Hillingdon.

Members of all ages, from school children to pensioners, are part of the group which has carried out four big picks to date.

Posnett said: “Its grown exceptionally quickly.

“We are trying to give nature a chance.

“The less rubbish there is out there, the better it is for everybody and the environment.

"I honestly just don’t understand why people would throw things on the floor."

Ealing Times: WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE: In one area the group managed to fill 30 bags while standing in one spot.WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE: In one area the group managed to fill 30 bags while standing in one spot.

He said kids often get blamed for litter which is not fair because most of it is alcohol-related.

Posnett is also a member of the Friends of Grand Union Canal group.

He said the canal is regularly littered with plastic bags floating in the water and rubbish thrown on the ground.

It is also a popular place for drinking dens and cubby holes because it is down a dip and out of immediate view.


Ealing Times: SATURDAY'S PICKINGS: The group found a stash of 30-40 mobile phones, two microwaves and a chair on Saturday's pick at Spike Bridge.SATURDAY'S PICKINGS: The group found a stash of 30-40 mobile phones, two microwaves and a chair on Saturday's pick at Spike Bridge.

Speaking about what can be done to stop littering, Posnett said park teams could carry out gardening such as cutting low branches to get rid of hiding places which turn into drinking dens where bottles and cans are left.

He also said more bins would not necessarily reduce littering.

He commented: “In some cases, bins actually attract litter, it’s been proven that if you take bins away there’s less residual litter.

“The ultimate message would be if you can’t put it in a bin, take it home.”

Last weekend the group picked in areas around Spike’s Bridge and Lake Farm Country Park.

Litter picking teams were limited to eight people in order to make sure social distancing was possible.

The group picks in areas not covered by Hillingdon Council and the council has been supportive.

Posnett said he hoped people would soon feel comfortable setting up their own picks and even taking up areas to look after on their own or in groups.

The results so far have been positive with cleared areas staying clearer.

The Hillingdon Litter Pickers group is on Facebook.