Concern that the absence of some of our regulars might curtail the amount of litter-picking that could be done was misplaced. We welcomed two new members to our friendly group, and were particularly impressed that one had come along to deputise for another member of our group who was ill! And an added bonus, Free Passes to the friendly sauna, The Locker Room, were on offer! The only downside was that the car park was full of the cars of walkers, dog walkers and cruisers (some very hot cruisers left while we were waiting to start!), but car parking was available nearby.
We’d run out of rubbish sacks at our previous litter-pick, but a friendly Forest Keeper helpfully delivered more to us.
With three regular litter-pickers and two newbies, plus another regular who turned up at the end to ‘do his own thing’ in the woods (ahem!), we had the capacity to cover a lot of ground.
A super team, working well, we made good progress. It was the usual routine of following the route we are used to, picking up litter and sexual debris along the paths, and paying particular attention to the various hot spots. As usual, this was a revelation to some who vowed to return to enjoy a closer look and join in with the activity that so obviously, judging from the amount of condoms, condom sachets, lube sachets tissues and wipes scattered around, takes place in these locations.
Our team enjoyed chatting as they moved through the woods, exchanging cruising tips as they went. The weather wasn’t bad, helping the good mood even further. And fast progress was made, impeded only by the need to stop to take pictures (which, incidentally, are only of those who expressly agree to be in them).
It is fair to say that at each of OWL’s litter-picking sessions we are finding less sexual debris, but probably the same amount of cans, bottles and general rubbish. Thanks go to the increasing number of cruisers who are being considerate of all who enjoy the area and disposing of their own rubbish thoughtfully. Having trawled through a considerable area of the woods it was time to collect the full sacks that we had placed strategically along our route, return to the car park, and enjoy our well-earned mid-session refreshments.
So enthusiastic were some that we had to wait a while for them to come out of the woods! And despite the looks on our faces, the comments really were about how good it was to be out there doing something worthwhile and useful.
We set off in search of more litter after our break, but it was fair to say that we couldn’t find much, and fairly soon returned to base to seal the bags (to stop animals emptying them) and place them ready for collection.
Another impressive amount of litter-picking. At the end of the session we lined up 26 sacks of rubbish – nearly as many as our last litter-pick.
Thanks, guys – a brilliant piece of work!
Although we hadn’t planned any further litter-picks this year it’s been suggested that we do one more before Christmas. Look out on here and on Squirt for the date. Festive refreshments will be provided!
Please be wise like OWL – dispose of your litter where it won’t offend other users of the woods!
(please note, we respect everyone’s right to anonymity and only show pics of those willing to have them posted)