Volunteers in Sholver have made a significant contribution to the Great British Spring Clean by collecting 40 bags of rubbish in a single community litter pick. The event, held in partnership with the Sholver Millennium Green Trust and Life for a Life Memorial Forests, was part of a national initiative to clean up local areas and was partly funded by First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO).

Empty cans, plastic bottles, and food wrappers made up the majority of the waste collected. FCHO provided £50 to cover refreshments and equipment for the volunteers, enabling a successful clean-up effort. The turnout saw local residents come together to improve their environment.

Amy Thwaites, a 39-year-old volunteer from Moorside, brought her three children to take part. She said: “I believe it’s vital to support and protect our environment. That’s why I got involved with my children at Sholver Community Centre – to help educate and inspire them to take responsibility and care for the world around them.”

Naomi Martin Smith, stronger communities manager at FCHO, expressed her appreciation for the community effort. “It was a great turnout by the local community. To collect 40 bags of rubbish in just a few hours is a real achievement. A huge thank you to all those who took part. FCHO was delighted to be able to assist the event.”

The community litter pick is just one example of local dedication. FCHO recently named Debbie Thornton, a volunteer who helps run the Sholver Community Centre and participates in litter picks, as its April Hidden Hero. As chair and bookings secretary of the centre on Sholver Lane, she plays a key role in hosting local groups, including FCHO’s affordable food initiatives.

There’s also excitement building for the Sholver and Moorside Flower and Vegetable Show. Now in its seventh year, the event welcomes entries from all districts of Oldham. The show, organised by the Sholver and Moorside Community Team, will feature categories for flowers, vegetables, fruit, craft, home produce, and floral art. It’s a chance for locals to showcase their talents and enjoy a community celebration.

The annual event is scheduled for September and encourages locals to get involved in growing, crafting, and baking for the show. Organisers hope to see a wide range of entries from across Oldham, continuing the tradition of community togetherness and celebration of local skills.