Spring clean spruce for Thornliebank

The 94th Glasgow Scout group (based at Thornliebank), staff at McDonalds Thornliebank and Eastwood MSP Ken Macintosh hit the southside streets for a clean-up recently, as part of the Keep Scotland Beautiful initiative.

The 33 volunteers — including McDonalds franchisee Jim McLean — identified Orchard Park Avenue as a litter hot spot.

The group donned their high-vis jackets and litter pickers — provided by East Renfrewshire council — and braved the Glasgow weather, collecting 12 bags of rubbish weighing over 52kg.

McDonalds man Jim told The Extra: “We are all aware that litter is a frustrating issue for everyone in our community, and it’s becoming more important than ever for everyone to help protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

“I’d like to thank Ken, the Scouts and all of my crew for their hard work and setting a good example of what can be achieved if people pull together.

“It’s vital that we all do our bit — everyone from local businesses like us to the residents of Thornliebank should make a commitment to helping protect the local environment.”

Holyrood man Ken Macintosh added: “There was a real litter problem in the lane behind the shops on Orchard Park Avenue, and thanks to the great work of the crew, the area has definitely benefited from this spring clean.”

The Thornliebank clean-up was one of many organised by McDonalds across the UK, and Keep Scotland Beautiful campaign director Mark Bevan commented: “I’d encourage businesses, voluntary groups and individuals to follow their lead and sign up to clean up at www.cleanupscotland.com.

“We can all do our bit and I hope these efforts will inspire others to work together to make our communities cleaner and greener for all to enjoy.”