THIRTY bagfuls of rubbish were collected during a community litter blitz in Keighley town centre.

A number of primary schools, groups and other organisations were involved in the hour-long initiative.

The session was spearheaded by the ROC Keighley community project.

It had asked Keighley primary school pupils what they loved about the town and what they’d like to improve – and the issue of litter was raised.

More than 150 children, young people and adults took part in the litter-pick.

Primary schools involved were Keighley St Andrew’s, Eastwood, Parkwood, Victoria, Our Lady of Victories, St Anne’s, St Joseph’s, Merlin Top, Long Lee, Holycroft and Riddlesden St Mary’s. And others giving their support included Keighley College, the police, Keighley Shared Church, the James Project, Strong Close Nursery School, River Worth Friends, Project 6, Keighley Lions, Airedale Methodist Circuit and Welcome Place Cafe.

All the litter collected was piled-up in Church Green before being collected by Bradford Council.

Keighley East district councillor Caroline Firth, who is on the ROC Keighley steering group and helped organise the event, said: “The turnout was absolutely fantastic. Everyone involved felt a real sense of community and pride after seeing the result of their amazing efforts.

“Thanks to everyone who took part and to all the organisers – and to Bradford Council cleansing, warden and ward officer teams for supplying equipment and taking all the rubbish away for us.”

As a thank-you, volunteers received an ice cream at the end of the session.

Lisa Holmes – of not-for-profit Keighley Photo Hub, who took photos on the day – said: “It was lovely. Everyone was in great spirits and again it reaffirmed my faith in the generosity and community spirit that the lovely people of Keighley have. The ice creams went down a storm too!”

ROC Keighley is open to anyone to join. Its other steering group members include residents, the college, Shared Church, youth service, charities and the police.

For further information and to get involved, email debragreen@roc.uk.com.