Camera crew followed fly-tipping action day

VOLUNTEERS battling fly-tipping in Gorse Covert are set to feature in the new series of BBC’s Street Patrol UK.

A camera crew from Leopard Films followed members of the Friends of Gorse Covert Mounds during one of their action days at the woodland site.

Gorse Covert Mounds is a haven for wildlife but has also become a hot spot for fly-tipping leading to Woodland Trust volunteers restoring the area.

Leopard Films recorded a team of almost 30 helpers including Asda and Bents workers, Woodland Trust officials and two CSOs.

Nigel Balding, chairman of Friends of Gorse Covert Mounds, said: “I am hugely grateful to everyone who came, particularly the volunteers.

“This was never going to be a pleasant task, but very satisfying to clear up so much rubbish that has been hidden for years.”

The 52-year-old added: “After the event the group had filled one medium and one large skip and another 20 bags of rubbish, collected 40 tyres ready for recycling, identified three locations with other hazardous waste and avoided being stung by bumble bees!”

The group also had to adjust to being on camera.

Nigel, a software engineer from Gorse Covert, said: “It was a little strange at first but there was a lot of filming so I did become more comfortable as the event went on.

“At one point when the group found some asbestos I was asked to comment immediately which I found difficult as I was experiencing such a mixture of emotions.

“Trying to keep people safe, annoyed at having to leave some rubbish and angry that fly-tippers could do such a thing.

“But the series is about highlighting the problems of anti-social behaviour and if it helps them to film me then I’m ok with that.”

Figures released by the Woodland Trust show that more than half a million pounds is spent on litter collection each year.

Despite carrying a fine of up to £50,000, more than £90,000 of that goes towards fly-tipping.

Nigel also wanted to thank Birchwood Town Council for collecting the rubbish bags.