On Saturday March 12th David Warburton, MP for Somerton and Frome, joined Cllrs David Hall and Clare Paul, Unitary Candidates Jonathan Munday and Gemma Verdon together with Chairman of Somerton and Frome Conservative Association Julian Stapleton and a goup of local volunteers at The Big Clean South West litter-picking event in Somerton, promoted by South West Conservatives.

Across the South West, The Big Clean saw MPs, councillors and volunteers lead or join nearly 20 events at litter hotspots across the region, including beaches, streets and parks. Litter-pick events took place across the region, from Perranporth in Cornwall, to Bournemouth in Dorset and Cheltenham in Gloucestershire.

Councillor David Hall, who led the local event in Somerton with Association Chairman Julian Stapleton and Somerton & Frome MP David Warburton, commented "This was a tremendous effort from our supporters and it was encouraging to hear so many positive comments from members of the public; a great team effort from Somerton Conservatives".

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow MP praised volunteer litter-pickers and beach-cleaners across the South West for their "tremendous work" to protect the environment.

Ms Pow commented, "There is nothing more Conservative than wanting to protect our environment. The South West boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and countryside in the world. Unfortunately, these places are often spoiled by those who thoughtlessly leave behind their litter.

"I am delighted to support the Big Clean, and congratulate all of those who are taking part to help protect our environment. This will build on the work that we are doing to tackle litter and problematic plastics.

"We have already banned the sale of plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds, increased the plastic bag charge to 10p and extended it to all retailers and launched a consultation on banning single use plastic cutlery, plates and polystyrene cups. We have also launched a call for evidence on other problematic single use plastics – including wet wipes, which is something I am particularly passionate about."

"Litter continues to be a problem in too many places, damaging our coastline, countryside and streets, and we're determined to confront the issue head-on."

Julian Ellacott, chairman of South West Conservatives, said: "Conservatives care deeply about the environment and it was

great to see so many taking part in The Big Clean this weekend, just as many of them do regularly throughout the year as part of their commitment to their local communities. "The Big Clean was a big success and I would like to thank everyone who took part, especially members of the public who

joined in, as well as all those involved in other campaigns and projects to reduce or eliminate litter, all year round."