New volunteers sought for 2013 voar redd up

The 26th annual Da Voar Redd Up will take place during the weekend of 27th and 28th April, Shetland Amenity Trust has announced.

Launched in 1988, the Redd Up quickly became the largest community-based voluntary clear-up in the UK, with over 20 per cent of Shetland’s population regularly volunteering.

Last year 4,849 participants gave over 10,000 man hours and collected over 56 tonnes of bruck from roadside verges, beaches and coastline.

Project officer Sita Goudie said: “Last year Da Voar Redd Up reached its quarter century and attracted its highest volunteer numbers to date; showing the incredible volunteering spirit there is in Shetland.

“What has been achieved is quite incredible, with over 1,500 tonnes of bruck being removed from our countryside. Groups which participated last year should be receiving registration forms soon.

“For those who have not taken part before, or individuals who would like to join a group in their area, please contact the trust or log on to www.shetlandamenity.org/da-voar-redd-up for further details on how to get involved.”

As well as providing an opportunity for the community to get together to improve their environment, taking part in the Redd Up can raise funds for local groups through sponsorship, while businesses and schools can earn points towards environmental schemes and awards. This year, for the first time, Young Scot card holders can also earn points through the Young Scot Reward Scheme.

The amenity trust supplies all gloves and bags and takes away all the bruck collected free of charge.

Bruck goes to the SIC waste management base where only 10 per cent of waste is sent to land fill sites, making the Redd Up an even more environmentally friendly initiative, said Ms Goudie.

The amenity trust website has many new features for this year’s event, including downloadable posters and online registration for new groups at www.shetlandamenity.org/da-voar-redd-up.

Call (01595) 694688 or e-mail info@shetlandamenity.org.