A community group has asked the public for donations to raise money to clean up paths, streets and neighborhoods in Erskine.

Initially, volunteers from Community Action for Erskine pulled together to clear a car park, roads and to pick up litter. Feedback gained by talking to residents has revealed that there is so much more work that can be done.

Future projects that will be tackled include clearing overgrown paths that are covered with weeds and jaggy nettles.

Jacqui Reid, chair person of Community Action for Erskine said: “Community Action for Erskine has been carrying out clearance works throughout the town over the last few months. These have made a huge difference and become a talking point for residents.

“We’ve cleared the Car Park area at Kilpatrick Drive with a view to hosting Farmers Markets and Community Events for local residents here. This has highlighted the issue that lots of areas of the town need clearance work carried out. Residents have contacted us to ask if we could uncover the hidden paths in their part of town.”

Local businesses have donated equipment worth over £1500 so far to help with the work but the group feels it is time to do more and raise funds to buy or hire equipment to carry on this work.

Many people in the town believe that the work should be carried out by Renfrewshire Council and Jacqui agrees, she said “Yes, there’s no doubt about that, however, budgets are tight – resources are being removed at a frightening level.

“I would ask you, therefore, to consider this – do you want to live in an area where kids have to avoid nettles/overgrown bushes on their route to school and house prices are driven down by the town looking tired and shoddy? If the answer is no, then please consider donating even a few pounds to help our efforts.

“Our projects have also included Litter Picks – litter that has been dropped by careless individuals who have no civic pride – not some nameless person – our neighbours, children, and friends!  If finances are tight at home, then why not offer your time rather than your money.

“Consider this, if each resident donated £1 – we could raise over £15,000 and really start to see a difference.”

To make a donation you can do so by clicking on the link below:

http://bit.ly/2krC086

To keep up-to-date with ‘Litter Pick Days’ you can find out more information by liking or following  ‘Community Action for Erskine’ on Facebook. (http://bit.ly/2ltFE1i)