The streets of Walcot are looking tidier after three youngsters pulled on rubber gloves and started going out to pick up litter.

Thia Bearman and her friends Daisy and Thomas Diprose decided it was time to do something after the girls were disgusted by the amount of rubbish they saw as they walked to the park.

So armed with gloves, hand sanitiser, bin bags and a trolley they've done two litter-picking sessions so far.

Daisy, nine, who goes to Lainesmead Primary School, said: “Me and Thia were on the way to the park when we noticed the litter and we saw it and thought 'this is not acceptable'.

"We went out the first time for about half an hour and then on Sunday for around two hours so it was a good time and we collected a lot.”

The three learned at school about the effect of litter on the environment and wanted to do something positive to help the community look cleaner.

Eight-year-old Thomas explained: “We wanted to do it to save the world and help with the environment, but it was a group decision to do it.”

Thia, 11, a Lawn Manor Academy pupil said: “I enjoyed it a lot because I get to spend more time with my friends. I live just near by to the park area and it just needed a really good clean-up so we thought we might as well take the time to do it.

“I wasn’t happy about the amount of rubbish because I learnt about what it can do in school, how it can damage the environment and harm the animals.

"We have collected a whole trolley full for the recycling bin,” she said.

Her mum Corinna said: I’m really proud of her. I just hope it sticks with them and they don’t turn into horrible teens who chuck rubbish everywhere.

“It keeps them occupied, I got her a phone recently but even she says it gets boring being on it constantly.

" Fair play to them, with all the rubbish going on it puts a smile on your face.”

And Thomas and Daisy's dad Darren added: “It is fabulous they’re doing it. We are very proud because they did it off their own initiative so it’s not directed by an adult.

"Between the three of them they’re allowed to take the garden trolley out so it’s an adventure. I think with all children it’s empowering for them and gives them responsibility. They will want to do it again as it’s something for them to do together.

“What was really shocking was the amount of face masks there was. There has always been an issue with litter in lots of areas but this has increased because of masks and PPE. They have one bin next to the park so there really isn’t enough.”