The effort and dedication of environmental volunteers in Portadown and Waringstown were recognised at the prestigious Live Here Love Here Community Awards 2024.
River Bann Cleanup Portadown received the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Champions Award in recognition of their work in removing litter from the river and surrounding area and raising awareness around the detrimental impact caused by rubbish on the local environment and wildlife.
And Trevor Beatty from Well Kept Waringstown was also recognised as a finalist in this category for his contribution to litter-picking, clearing areas, planting and improving the overall image of the village.
Both River Bann Cleanup Portadown and Trevor Beatty were shortlisted after a nomination period which was open to the public throughout January.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Margaret Tinsley congratulated both River Bann Cleanup Portadown and Trevor Beatty on their recognition.
She said: “On a daily basis we can see the efforts of these volunteers are really going above and beyond to improve and protect our local environment.
“Not only are they making such a positive impact on the ground, but they are also inspiring other people in our communities to make an effort to look after the environment and I would like to pay tribute and congratulate them on their richly deserved awards.”
Elizabeth Reaney, Head of Environmental Health at ABC Council, Anthony Pereira and Lynda Surgenor, Live Here Love Here Manager
The awards, held on Thursday, February 29, were sponsored by Belfast Harbour and supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
Lynda Surgenor, Live Here Love Here Manager, said: “This year’s instalment is made all the more special as we’re marking ten years of community support for the campaign. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the nominees and recipients – their remarkable achievements will inspire others to join the moment towards a cleaner, greener, and more connected Northern Ireland.”
Some of Live Here Love Here’s initiatives include the Big Spring Clean which is running in March and April and supported by ABC Council.
If you would like to become involved with a clean-up, please contact Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council on 0300 0300 900 or email ehealth@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk for further information.
