Council Leader Gareth Roberts among over 80 volunteers
The 2019 annual Thames Draw Off, jointly hosted by Be Richmond and Environment Trust, took place on Friday 1st November.
With lock gates left open for maintenance, at low tide, the river through Richmond emptied giving an opportunity to access and clear rubbish from the riverbed.
Over 80 volunteers from local organisations and businesses across London attended the event and successfully cleared a variety of litter, plastic, glass and other rubbish. Larger items included boat chains and scrap metal.
None of the items collected will go to landfill and most of the general waste will be used to generate ‘green’ energy by recycling specialists, First Mile.
Among the participants were Councillor Gareth Richards and London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Council Leader Gareth Roberts, who commented:
“The river is the lifeblood of our borough, which is unique in that it is transpontine and operates across both sides of the Thames. We will take any opportunity we can to ensure we have a healthy river and are delighted to help today.”
Be Richmond Manager Ellen Storrar said:
“The Thames is one of Richmond’s greatest assets. It showcases the town, supports businesses and provides leisure opportunities for residents, workers and visitors. The Thames Draw Off gives us an excellent opportunity to clear the riverbed and reduce pollution. Many thanks to Environment Trust for their help.”
Volunteer, Ana Pouymayou of Richmond Hill Hotel added:
“We are very pleased to take part. It is important that local businesses like ours play their part in supporting initiatives like this which help our environment.”
Volunteer John Pickles of Globe IFA in St Margaret’s said:
“Three of us from Globe IFA were delighted to help in the clean-up event. I’d never stood on the riverbed before and was amazed at what we found. It makes so much sense to keep the Thames clean and I look forward to next year.”
Ed Stannard of South West London Environment Network said:
“It’s brilliant to be down here today with Be Richmond and Environment Trust supporting their efforts to keep the river clean.”
Sarah Swain, Head of Marketing at Doctify (who brought a team from Central London) was delighted to be involved:
“It’s been a fantastic morning to get out of the office and do our bit to clean up the river.”
About Environment Trust
Environment Trust has been looking after the natural and built environment since 1984. It started in Richmond and now also operates in Kingston and Hounslow. Their programme aims to engage young people through linking work in schools with an understanding and practical experience of local issues.
