Co Tyrone members help keep the countryside clean during lockdown

Members from local clubs have been doing their bit to keep the countryside clean as part of the ‘Big YFCU Clean Up Challenge’.
By The Newsroom
Published 11th Jun 2020, 10:00 BST
Carolyn McDowell, Newtownstewart, pictured with litter that was lifted on the Gortgranagh RoadCarolyn McDowell, Newtownstewart, pictured with litter that was lifted on the Gortgranagh Road
Carolyn McDowell, Newtownstewart, pictured with litter that was lifted on the Gortgranagh Road

Since lockdown, the Countryside Alliance has reported a 300% rise in fly-tipping and inappropriate disposal of waste.

The 90th YFCU anniversary theme this year was: “90 years of challenge and change.” To mark this theme alongside what is happening in regards to fly-tipping, the YFCU set a challenge for each of their clubs in Northern Ireland to clear 1.7km of their local roadsides of rubbish and waste.

Clubs from all over Ulster took up the challenge and smashed the distance allocated by clearing twice the amount, 185km!

Trent Brown, Seskinore YFCU, pictured taking part in the YFCU Big Clean Up ChallengeTrent Brown, Seskinore YFCU, pictured taking part in the YFCU Big Clean Up Challenge
Trent Brown, Seskinore YFCU, pictured taking part in the YFCU Big Clean Up Challenge

Carolyn McDowell, Newtownstewart Young Farmers’ Club, said: “Between all our members we managed to clear 12.5km of our local community! 

“During the clear up members found everything from glass bottles, card board waste, building supplies to black bags full of garden waste.”

Due to Covid-19 restrictions members carried out the challenge following government guidelines following social distancing and health and safety procedures.

Related topics:YFCUNorthern IrelandUlster