Free waste collection service to start; sponsored by Environment Agency It is definitely the new black...

DOOR-to-door collections to help householders get rid of waste start this month, thanks to a community-led initiative.

The collections will offer residents in Annfield Plain, Greencroft and New Kyo in Derwentside the opportunity to clear their gardens and yards of waste, free of charge.

The drive is part of the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) running in Annfield Plain and New Kyo which was inspired by both the Annfield Plain Partnership and the New Kyo and Oxhill Partnership.

It is run in conjunction with environmental regeneration charity Groundwork West Durham & Darlington and Derwentside District Council.

The CEDI project began in July and supports the employment of two environmental wardens, Maggie Willey and Melanie Howd, to work in the area delivering education initiatives and practical environmental projects, to improve the appearance of the area and encourage pride in the community.

Melanie said: "This project provides a great opportunity for people to become involved in initiatives that will visibly improve their environment and community."

Maggie and Melanie monitor the green spaces in the areas and remove graffiti, as well as delivering projects that respond to the requests of the residents and the two local community partnerships.

This has involved community clean ups in 'grot spots' as well as the delivery of activities in schools to boost awareness of environmental issues.

Robin Tunstall, community economic development co-ordinator for Derwentside District Council, said: "The project is proving to be a real success story raising awareness of environmental issues among residents and school children and has the added benefit of enabling communities to get involved in improving the environment in their area.

"But while Maggie and Melanie are committed to improving environmental awareness and the appearance of the two villages, it is only with the residents continued support that Annfield Plain and New Kyo will be better places to live and work both now and in the future."

Another strand of the wardens' work is to help schools in the area to develop "living spaces" in their grounds.

As part of this they look particularly at waste reduction and recycling.

After working with the wardens, Catchgate School is looking to develop greenhouses and fences made out of plastic bottles that would have otherwise been thrown away.

The CEDI project is delivered by Derwentside District Council, with Single Programme funding.

CAPTION(S):

CAUGHT OUT - a litter monster is tracked down by green-minded pupils at Annfield Plain Junior School with help from Police Community Support Officers