PUPILS from Richmond Academy have joined in the fight against litter and waste in Oldham.

Students from the Coldhurst school united with residents, ward councillors, members of Vale Drive Residents Association and representatives of First Choice Homes Oldham to clean up the school grounds and surrounding areas.

The litterpick formed part of the Keep Britain Tidy’s the Great British Spring Clean campaign which runs until June 13.

Councillor Abdul Jabbar, deputy leader of Oldham Council, said: “Making sure our streets are clean is a priority for Oldham Council so it’s great to see young people, and community members getting stuck in and clearing up the area.

“If everyone disposed of their waste properly then we wouldn’t have to carry out litterpicks like this. It’s a shame people think it is ok to drop litter and waste as it makes the area look dirty, and no one wants to see that.

“It would be great if more people followed the example set by these young people and showed pride in their hometown – rather than expecting others to clean up after them.”

Principal Claire Rahman said the school was committed to producing “eco warriors”.

She added: “It has been great to be involved in the community clean up as it has been a while since we have been able to take part in such events.

“It's also a fantastic experience for our children to witness first-hand the difference to both our local community and school environment at the end of the clean-up when they can see all the litter collected.

“The children have enjoyed being a part of the clean-up and are very proud of what they have achieved.”

In January, The Oldham Times launched a campaign, along with our new daily edition, in a bid to stamp out littering across the borough.

Oldham Council now supports community litter picks with the district teams loaning out equipment to residents partaking.

For more information or to report litter and fly-tipping visit the Oldham council website.