Dedicated communities across Waltham Forest have spent two weekends painting, pruning and picking up litter to try and better the borough for summer.

Over the last fortnight adults, children and even elderly residents have volunteered their time to take part in an annual spring clean.

The council initiative saw success again this year with 48 different events taking place.

 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Groups of children and adults got involved in the 2015 spring clean event 

Eighteen tonnes of waste were collected and over 2,000 bulbs were planted.

Groups ranging from scouts to mosques took part, including 17 schools and 31 residents’ associations.

Whitehall Primary School in Chingford had children pick up litter, while Aubrey Road Residents Association took to the streets with heavy duty cutters, a tree saw and black paint for lampposts.

All equipment was supplied by the council.

James Phillips from the Aubrey Road group said residents in Walthamstow really got stuck in.

“It went really well and we had a great turnout. The alleyway looks really great with all the new flowers and we've opened up some new kerbside beds as well,” he added.

 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Residents from around Waltham Forest did their bit to tidy up the borough in the 2015 spring clean events

Juanita Azubuike from Ruby Road in Walthamstow said: “I think this practical opportunity to spring clean for some of the more vulnerable people on the street in this safe and supportive community atmosphere worked amazingly.”

Ralph Meanley from Cleveland Park Residents Association praised the authority.

He said: “There was a great sense of purpose and enjoyment there yesterday with a really good turnout.”