Documentary presenter Stacey Dooley has visited Failsworth to film a forthcoming BBC series on the UK's litter crisis. The series highlights the work of community groups tackling the problem, and in Failsworth, the spotlight fell on Northern Lily CIC, a social enterprise based in the area.

Northern Lily CIC has been running paddle-sport litter picks on the Rochdale Canal for the past 12 months. Funded by Oldham Council, the project has seen volunteers aged from 12 to 65 take to the water in canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to clear waste from the canal. Over the year, they have collected plastic bottles, food packaging, tyres, trolleys, and larger items such as fire extinguishers and mattresses, which have been fly-tipped into the waterway.

The initiative is part of Northern Lily's mission to help communities across Greater Manchester connect with nature and build confidence outdoors. By combining paddle sports with environmental action, the project offers a unique way for residents to learn new skills while making a tangible difference to their local environment.

During the visit, Stacey Dooley met volunteers involved in the clean-ups and heard their stories. She also joined the team on the canal to experience the paddle-sport litter picks firsthand. The BBC crew filmed the work, capturing both the challenges of cleaning urban waterways and the dedication of the volunteers.

Victoria Holden, Founder of Northern Lily CIC, said: “It’s been an incredible year of community-led action on the water. Our volunteers have shown just how much difference local people can make when they’re given the tools, training, and support to protect the places they love. We’re delighted that Stacey and the BBC chose to visit Failsworth and share the story of what’s happening here.”

The BBC series, which is set to air later this year, will explore the scale of litter across the UK and celebrate the organisations that are working to change the narrative through education, community involvement, and hands-on environmental action.

Northern Lily has thanked Oldham Council for funding the paddle-sport litter pick programme and all the volunteers who have contributed their time and energy over the past year. The project is now looking for a new sponsor to continue the paddle-sport litter picks. Anyone interested in supporting the initiative can contact Northern Lily at [email protected].