MP backs charity bid to clean Thamesmead waterways

MP for Erith and Thamesmead John Austin will join Thames21 to clean up the Butts Canal in Thamesmead on Saturday 24 March.

Thames21 works across Thamesmead's waterways to combat litter with funding from Gallions Housing Association. The charity is looking for more volunteers to join the clean up and help bring this canal to life.

John Austin, MP for Erith and Thamesmead said, 'Thamesmead's waterways are rich in wildlife and could be vital local green spaces for people to enjoy and use. Unfortunately, high levels of litter drive people away and make some areas feel neglected and unsafe. Thames21's drive to reduce litter by getting local people involved in its work is an important long term strategy to bring Thamesmead's waterways to life.'

Thames21's Local Rivers Coordinator Geoff Williams said, "As well as organising regular clean ups to clear litter and debris we are also looking to recruit local Riverkeeper Volunteers to take part in litter picks, planting, remove graffiti and prevent small problems from escalating out of control."

Event details
Date: Saturday 24 March
Photo Call: 11am
Event Timings: 10:45 - 3pm
Meeting Location: Thamesmead Town Centre, Butts Canal, Thamesmere Drive (by the Thamesmere Leisure Centre). Click here for map.
Event contact: Geoff Williams 07855 795 941
A parent or guardian must accompany children under 16. All Health and Safety equipment provided by Thames21.

Ends
Media enquiries - Leigh McAlea at Thames21 020 7213 0166 / 07875 250 284
Notes to Editors:

" Thames21 is an environmental charity working with communities to improve and maintain London's rivers and canals. Its mission is to create clean, safe and sustainable waterside environments for all.www.thames21.org.uk

" Gallions Housing Association works to improve services for its customers and ensure its activities and interests are central to the needs of the community it works in. GHA have begun to extend the range and scope of services and products it offers to help create and maintain a sustainable community in Thamesmead. For more information visit www.gallionsha.co.uk/