Volunteers sought for Southport ‘Big Spring Clean’ to remove coastal debris

11th March 2023

Volunteers are being asked to help clear up a line of rubbish left by this winter’s high tides at Southport, stretching from RSPB Marshside car park to Hesketh Road.

Wes Davies, Ribble Reserves Assistant Warden, said, “We’re asking local people to help us collect and sort this rubbish before it pollutes the marsh forever. Keeping contaminants off the marsh really helps protect wildlife from getting caught in it while it is on the surface. Removing it before it is absorbed by the marsh prevents toxins being released, which can poison plants and animals for many years into the future”.

This is the perfect time to do a ‘Big Spring Clean’ once the seasonal high tides have subsided for a while and before the bird breeding season gets started.

Volunteers can drop in any time from 10 am – 4 pm and regular volunteers will kit people out with gloves and litter pickers.

Wes added, “Every year we sadly witness the devastating effects of rubbish on the marsh. We find birds caught in plastic, and small mammals stuck in containers. Having lots of hands to help us clear this is amazing – and it prevents toxins entering the marsh forever”.

Charlie Baker, RSPB Volunteer, said, “Volunteering can be an amazing day out on the marsh, as well as offering the satisfaction of doing my bit to help the environment.”

– Sunday 26 March
– 10am to 4pm
– Drop in any time for as long as you can – no booking required
– Family friendly – apart from dogs – no dogs please
– Meet at RSPB Marshside Car park (free to helpers) – wear suitable clothing and footwear
– PPE and litter picking equipment provided