People's Project town clean-up campaign steps up

Oct 15 2008 by Craig Robertson, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

DUMFRIES businessman Mark Jardine has upped the ante on the People’s Project.

A new poster campaign has been launched reminding everyone to keep the town clean.

And a call has gone out for volunteers to operate a cherry picker to sort out the guttering around the town centre.

The Standard-backed People’s Project aims to clean up Dumfries and make it more attractive to visitors.

Mark’s idea has already received wide support from the public and the local business community.

And, thanks to Solway Offset, the new posters will be displayed in pubs and shops throughout Dumfries.

It calls on members of the public to “kick butts off our streets” — referring to the mess left by discarded cigarette stubs.

Mark said: “These will be placed all around the town, especially in the pubs, just to remind people to keep the town clean.

“It doesn’t take a lot to put cigarette ends or litter in the bin, so we’re just trying to get people to do that.”

More posters are in the pipeline.

The People’s Project has also been offered a cherry picker by West Skelston Services to clean out weeds and dirt from the gutters at the town centre shops.

And the Heathhall firm has kindly offered training to anyone who volunteers to operate it.

Mark said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference to the town.

“West Skelston is willing to give us the cherry picker for as long as we need it.

“All I’m looking for is people to come forward who are willing to operate it and do something for the town.

“There might be someone out there who is retired and has used them before or just someone who wants to help clean up the town.”

Anyone who wishes to volunteer should get in touch with the Standard on 01387 240331.