Help clean up the thames

By Kate Youde on September 11, 2007 12:00 AM

A CHARITY is urging Wharfers to get suited and booted to help clear a "blot on the landscape".
Thames21 is marking World Rivers Day later this month by cleaning up one of the Thames' dirtiest beaches. And Docklands volunteers are needed to turn out on their doorstep in support.
The Cleaner Thames Challenge will tackle the Isle of Dogs at low tide between September 27 and 30.

The charity last year identified that stretch of the river as one of the most littered in London. Hundreds of volunteers have since carried out a dozen clear-ups, removing more than 40 tonnes of rubbish and at least 30,000 plastic bags.
Matthew Loveday, Thames21's river programmes co-ordinator, said: "Set in the heart of the Olympic zone and with amazing views to Greenwich, the financial district of Canary Wharf and The O2, this littered stretch of the River Thames is a blot on the landscape, despite improvements made.
"Thames21 needs as many volunteers as possible to help during the clean-up and participants can do as much or as little as they like.
"It will also be a great chance for different parts of the community to come together with a common purpose of returning this river to health, benefiting the surrounding community and wildlife habitats."
Volunteers, who should wear old clothes, will receive all necessary equipment, including boots, at Newcastle Drawdock, off Saunders Ness Road. There will be toilets and bottled water on site.
An adult must accompany children under the age of 16.
The clear-up will run 7.30-10am on September 27, 8.15-10.45am on September 28, 9-11.30am on September 29 and 9.30am-12pm on September 30.
World Rivers Day coincides with the last day of the challenge. To register your interest email cleanerthameschallenge@thames21.org.uk, call 020 7213 0160 or visit www.thames21.org.uk
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