The local MP for Kingswood Chris Skidmore has joined forces with local residents and members of the “Friends of Southey Park” group for his latest litter-picking drive, by taking part in a clean of the local open space near New Cheltenham Road.  

The litter pick, which took place in the afternoon of Friday 25th June, saw many volunteers taking part in small, socially distanced groups to help remove litter and clean up the local park.  

Friends of Southey Park works in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council to raise the profile of this green area through positive activities, and working with other community groups and agencies. The members work to bring improvements to this open space, encouraging the local community to make use of the park and its facilities.  

Chris has been supporting litter picks ever since he became and MP. He organises regular tidying-up activities leading teams of volunteers in clearing up our local area all across Kingswood. The MP is now looking forward to meeting with Council Leader Cllr Toby Savage and other local representatives to discuss proposals for investment in the constituency, including our local parks. 

Chris said: “I am delighted to join Southey Park volunteers and take part in another litter pick to help keep our local area tidy and looking its best.  

We have seen how the pandemic has unfortunately meant increased littering for our communities here in South Gloucestershire, so it was fantastic to get together with local residents and members to take positive action for the environment locally.”  

Friends member Tina Sheppard said: “The Friends of Southey Park was founded by local residents to safeguard and develop Southey Park for the benefit of all local residents, wildlife and park users.  

We hold annual events to raise much needed funds for park improvements and undertake monthly litter picks.If you would like to get involved then please contact friendsofsoutheypark@gmail.com  

We welcome new members and appreciate all the help that we can get”.