YOUNGSTERS and families who are part of Thrrock's Open Door network joined Grays Beachcombers this morning (Sunday, 5 January) to take part in the monthly litter pick along the bank of the River Thames.

The pickers meet at Thurrock Yacht Club on the first Sunday of every month and are frequently joined by members of local companies and organisations.

Open Door have been regular participants and and litter pick co-ordinator Steve Catchpole said: "I would like to thank Paul Wilding and his colleagues and the young people for coming along an joining us and helping make this part of Grays a cleaner, better place.

"Their repeated help is really appreciated."

After the clean-up pickers enjoyed refreshments provided by the Lightship café.

Other upcoming litter picks include:

Saturday 11th January – meeting at Church Street car park RM17 6EG at 09:00 to 12:00. This is the regular Orchard Forum back alley clean-up. All welcome especially local residents. This is NOT a river based clean-up.

Wednesday 15th January – meeting at RSPB Rainham Marshes small car park on Coldharbour Lane at Rainham at 10:30 to 13:00. This is a river based Badged Thames21 event.

Saturday 25th January – meeting at old St Clements Church RM20 4AL at 10:30 to 13:30. We will be picking along the Graffiti Wall. This is a family friendly event suitable for accompanied children 8 years and older. This event will include up to 3 miles walking so comfortable walking shoes/boots are recommended. This is a river based Badged Thames21 event.

Sunday 2nd February – meeting at Grays Yacht Club RM17 6JF at 10:30 to 12:00 followed by free refreshments in the café. This is the Grays Beachcombers regular monthly pick. This is a family friendly event suitable for accompanied children 6 years and older and is a river based Badged Thames21 event.