Good morning from a Giffnock fit for sunseekers,
When I started collecting litter in Huntly Park last year, I would carry off several full sacks (and then wonder where to take them!). It was good exercise. It was therapeutic to get back to my childhood roots after serving with the RAF. But I was dismayed at the attitudes of those who left the mess and treated the place with contempt.
Things have changed. When my daughter and I go there now, we might fill one bag, but that requires a 'deep clean' of the woods (the antique beer cans have gone now!). Volunteers working alongside council staff are keeping the standard high. Some of those volunteers and staff receive these updates: thank you from a grateful resident. You make this place home.
Huntly Park has been saved and it is now being taken care of. As a community, we are showing that it would be an ideal place for a community led café (no disposable cups, mind!).
My goal now is to ensure that the rest of Giffnock and Thornliebank is litter free. If you are interested in joining the Pick Up for Giffnock and Thornliebank Litter Project, drop me a line on allanrmsteele@hotmail.com (Failing that, simply get a litter picker and do your bit - you will feel all the better for it!).
Yours in community,
Allan