Undeterred by morning showers, a crowd of 45 volunteers joined Friends of Ryde Town Hall (FORTH), the Ryde Business Association and Ryde Town Council to pick litter in and around Ryde town centre on Monday (8th May), as part of The Big Help Out day of service.
Their hard work filled 60 bags of rubbish which were disposed of by Ryde Town Council staff.
FORTH founding member Anmarie Bowler welcomed volunteers assembled outside of Ryde Town Hall and Theatre, reminding everyone that the foundation stone for the building was laid by John Lind in May of 1830. She updated volunteers on FORTH’s efforts to rally support for returning the Town Hall to public use before the group got to work.
Barker: “Thank you to everyone who helped out”
FORTH Chair, Zoe Barker, said,
“All the volunteers were so upbeat and we all really enjoyed pitching in. Thank you to everyone who helped out.
“This was such a success we’d like to do it again.
“It could become an annual event on or near 14th May, marking the anniversary of the Town Hall’s foundation.”
Taking part
Volunteers included Ryde Mayor Michael Lilley and Ryde Town Councillors Diana Conyers and Richard May. The Star Coffee and Ale House, Costa Coffee, Pickle and Dill, The Wonky Goat and Crepe Lovers provided free coffee vouchers for everyone who took part.
Matt Whittaker, Director of Keert was on hand to help move heavy rubbish sacks to the collection point via a delivery bike.
Ryde Library and Ryde Town Council provided hand-held litter pickers and bag hoops. Co-op Ryde donated plastic sacks and Co-op Member Pioneer for Ryde and Sandown Donna Newnham provided high quality gloves. Hover Travel loaned high-vis vests used on the day.
Madigan: “What a brilliant way to finish off a weekend of celebrations”
Rob Madigan, owner of The Star Coffee and Ale House and Chairman of the RBA, said,
“Ryde Business Association was very happy to be involved in this community event.
“It was great to meet so many people of all ages willing to give of their time.
“What a brilliant way to finish off a weekend of celebrations.”
News shared by Anmarie on behalf of FORTH. Ed
