Banton Primary pupils clean up village

For the pupils at Banton Primary have taken to the streets to clean them up.

The schoolkids have been out picking up litter and reporting dog fouling in the village as part of a project to improve their local area.

They invited North Lanarkshire Council to help with their project, so animal welfare officer Kayleigh Collins gave a talk about her role and the local authority’s campaign to tackle the problem of dog fouling.

Kayleigh also supported the pupils’ efforts by erecting a sign to warn owners of the fines imposed on anyone who allows their dog to foul the streets and a banner highlighting the council’s campaign.

Councillor Helen McKenna, convener of the regeneration and environmental services committee, said: “I’m delighted the Banton Primary School pupils are taking such a pride in their community. Council staff work around the clock to keep our streets clean, and it’s fantastic that the pupils want to play their part in making Banton a safe and pleasant place to live for everyone. Congratulations to them for their enthusiasm and hard work.

“This supports our campaign telling residents we do not tolerate dog fouling and littering, and will take action against anyone who does.”

Banton Primary teacher Jacquie Pearce added: “The pupils in primary 1/2/3 did a litter pick during ECO week and were shocked at the amount of litter and dog fouling in the village. As part of an enterprise initiative they formed a company called The Little Litter Pickers whose aim was to keep Banton tidy and encourage villagers to use the free scoops and bags provided by the council.”

To report dog fouling, phone 01698 403110.