Rubbish removed from Radyr - CRG event report

As part of National Volunteers week, Cardiff Rivers Group returned to Radyr today to clean up litter and waste from the River Taff and surrounding areas. On a glorious day, the volunteers were pleasantly surprised by the lack of litter they found amongst the undergrowth.

Volunteers commented, “Despite searching long and hard for litter, I have only managed to fill half a bag. Whilst I am disappointed with my haul, I am actually really pleased as it does look like the message is getting through to people!” 

The only severely blighted area was the banking behind Radyr Railway station. It was absolutely covered with cans and bottles which had obviously been thrown over the fence by unscrupulous rail passengers whilst waiting for their trains to arrive.

Louise Tambini commented, “It’s a real shame that passengers dispose of their litter so carelessly and with no thought for the environment. All these cans will eventually roll down the banking and end up polluting our river. I really wish they would take their litter home with them where they can recycle it correctly”.

Some of the 21 volunteers took advantage of the low water levels to enter the river and remove large items from the riverbed. They managed to retrieve 3 bikes, 3 gas cannisters, security fencing, 4 traffic cones and some tyres! Add this to the 21 bags of litter collected by the volunteers based on the banks and it is a great effort by all involved.    

Tales of the riverbank

More photos can be seen here.

All waste will be collected by Cardiff Council Parks Services.

The group’s next event will be next Sunday 9th June when they will be taking part in the Llandaff Charity Raft race. Volunteers have made the CRG raft entirely from salvaged rubbish and are hopeful of a podium finish! They are raising money for Keep Wales Tidy and George Thomas Hospice. Please show your support by going down to Llandaff Rowing club to cheer the team on at 12pm. You can make a donation via the group blog (click on the "Donate" button on the right-hand side).