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How did Soroptimists get involved in #CleanUpMaidstone?

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) has introduced the ‘Get Involved in #CleanUpMaidstone Project’ – a campaign designed to provide community and volunteer groups, local businesses, and residents, with the equipment, resources, and support to help improve an area of land they would like to see cleaned up.

Julia Search contacted MBC to enquire if Medway and Maidstone Soroptimists could adopt an area in Tovil to clean up. This is where the Soroptimists had planted 420 tree whips as part of the Centenary Challenge. MBC approved this, and provided 10 litter pickers and refuse sacks. A litter pick followed by a picnic was held on Saturday 27 August.

On arrival, members went looking for the 420 tree whips we had planted. The area is now all overgrown with vegetation and it took a while to locate the whips. The whips have been tested by the extremely hot weather and drought conditions. Hopefully the recent rain and then a rest over winter should result in a bounce back. We have been advised that the whips are very resilient and the competition from other vegetation just holds them back a little for a short time.

14 members took part in the litter pick. Through their combined efforts they collected enough rubbish to fill 6 refuse sacks. Afterwards we all enjoyed a picnic together sitting in the beautiful sunshine. This was such a contrast to the damp and foggy weather back in January at the tree planting event.

#CleanUpMaidstone is everyone’s responsibility. It is essential that we all get involved and take pride in where we live and work. We should all do our bit to help clean up Maidstone and as Medway and Maidstone Soroptimists we are proud to take part in improving our community.