VOLUNTEERS in Salisbury have been doing their bit to keep the city tidy as part of a nationwide campaign.

Members of the Cycling Opportunities Group for Salisbury (COGS) took part in the Great British Spring Clean on March 10, focusing their efforts on Southampton Road and the nearby Park and Ride.

The group chose the location as it forms part of Route 24 of the National Cycle Network, a key link between Bath and Eastleigh used by cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Over a couple of hours, the team collected seven bags of litter, helping to improve the environment for those using the busy route.

The Great British Spring Clean, organised by Keep Britain Tidy, is the UK’s largest mass participation litter-picking campaign, bringing together volunteers across the country to clean up public spaces.

COGS chairman Rob Jacobs said: “This was a great opportunity to make a small contribution to keeping our city clean and tidy.

“Littering is such an antisocial activity by a minority of residents, and we were pleased to make a difference.

“We hope that by leaving those parts of Southampton Road and the Park and Ride cleaner that those using these areas will be more respectful. “

The litter pick was organised by Lucy Davey, who was joined by a team of dedicated volunteers.

She added: “Evidence demonstrates that where an area is clean then people are less likely to throw their litter on the ground.

“I would like to thank the COGS members who participated and the city council for supporting our activity”

The initiative highlights the growing role community groups can play in supporting cleaner, greener areas while encouraging more people to take pride in shared spaces.