Little litter pickers help Peak National Park

Children aged between 2 and 4 years have been learning to look after their local environment with the help of a Peak District National Park ranger.

Youngsters who attend Bamford Pre-School carried out a litter pick around their village led by National Park engagement ranger, Tom Lewis.

The children, kitted out with yellow vests and litter-pickers, collected rubbish from around their Pre-School, the village green and from the recreation ground.

Working together, ranger Tom Lewis and the Pre-School staff helped the children understand the importance of taking litter home and being good citizens.

Tom Lewis said: “Helping children from an early age to connect with nature and learn about the environment is vital for enthusing the next generation about protecting their local area and community. The children did a great job clearing litter and had a really fun day!”

Bamford Pre-School leader Caroline Hunter, said: “We have the perfect opportunity on our doorstep for the children to explore and learn about the outdoors, and our partnership with the Peak District National Park is very important to us.

“It was fantastic for the children to meet the ranger so that our little ones could find out at first hand why it’s important to look after our local environment. The children worked very hard and they have a real sense of pride in looking after their village in Britain’s first National Park.

“Bamford Pre-School is proud to be an active member of the local community and the litter pick is part of this ethos. Thank you to all the parents, friends and family who sponsored our litter pick.”

After all their hard work, the children enjoyed a well-earned play at the recreation ground.

Picture caption: Bamford Pre-School children and staff with Peak District National Park ranger Tom Lewis collected litter from around their village.