Huntly volunteer awarded accolade for efforts to clean up town

A volunteer has been awarded a Clean Up Scotland Hero award by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful for her efforts to reverse the area’s litter emergency.

Susi McLarty, from Huntly, was nominated by Kayleigh Nicholls after noticing her posts on social media encouraging people to get involved in litter picks.

Kayleigh approached Susi and asked how her organisation, Gordon Rural Action, could support her and their friendship grew from there.

Susi, through her role with the community council, helped Kayleigh and her work receive a micro grant which was used to purchase litter picking equipment to be distributed throughout the community.

Before that, however, the equipment will be used throughout the summer holidays as part of litter picks for children that Susi and Kayleigh are organising.

Susi said: “I am slightly embarrassed that I have been nominated for this as I do it out of love for our environment and to hopefully influence others to do the same.

“We need to ensure our children are aware of the impact of litter on our environment and the positive impact which can be made by litter picking, not dropping litter, switching engines off and recycling/re-using and refilling.

“Scotland is a beautiful country and we all need to do our bit to keep it that way.”

Barry Fisher, chief executive at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “I am incredibly pleased to award Susi with our Clean Up Scotland Hero award.

“She is a great role model for everyone and really deserves this recognition for her enduring determination.

“Scotland has a litter emergency, so it is more important than ever that we look after our beautiful country and keep it clean and tidy.

“Our latest report found that 90 per cent of people believe litter is an issue across the country, so we all have a responsibility to play our part.

“We know how much people care about our environment, and I hope that Susi’s award encourages others to get involved and help us keep Scotland beautiful.”

Chrissie Jeffery, Scottish lead for Helping Hand, said: “As the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of quality, sustainable litter clearance tools and equipment, our commitment to environmental responsibility is at the forefront of our mission.

“Since 2014, we have taken immense pride in championing the Hero of the Month Award, a platform that recognises the extraordinary dedication of individuals and organisations striving to Keep Scotland Beautiful.

“Today, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the latest winner, Susi, and we will be sending them a sustainable litter picking kit to help continue their remarkable efforts in contributing to the collective goal of fostering a cleaner, greener Scotland.

“We believe in empowering those who share our passion for environmental stewardship, and it is truly inspiring to witness the positive influence these heroes have on their communities.”

People who know someone who deserves to be recognised, can visit keepscotlandbeautiful.org for more information.

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