Friends of Ryde Town Hall (FORTH), the Ryde Business Association and Ryde Town Council are joining together to organise Tidy Ryde, an opportunity to meet up with neighbours and beautify Ryde town centre by picking up litter. Scheduled for 8 May, 2023, from 11am to 1pm, it is part of The Big Help Out, a nationwide day of service following The Coronation of King Charles.
“By lending a hand we can make a good thing even better,” Zoe Barker, Chair of FORTH said. “If lots of us volunteer for just an hour or two we can spruce up our town, meet new people and feel even better about the place we call home.”
Volunteers are encouraged to meet outside Ryde Town Hall on 8 May at 11am. If you are able, please wear gloves and bring a bin bag but latex gloves and bags will be available on site. A list of specific areas in need of a clean up will be available and Ryde Town Council is providing large bins for depositing bags. Safety measures will also be outlined.
“The businesses of Ryde are happy get involved with The Big Help Out,” Rob Madigan, the owner of The Star Coffee & Ale House and Chair of RBA said. “Joining with local residents to improve the town centre is a really positive, productive way to spend an hour or two.”
Friends of Ryde Town Hall (FORTH) is a resident-led volunteer organisation seeking to rally support for returning Ryde Town Hall and Theatre to public use. At present a not-for-profit Community Interest Organisation (CIO) is being formed; ideally this CIO will seek seed funding and in time purchase the building from the private owner, returning it to public use through national grant support, rental income from letting spaces in the building and local fundraising.
“Helping to organise an event like this is a way for members of FORTH to contribute now, while we continue to advocate for a better future for the Town Hall,” Barker explained.
Ryde Library and Ryde Town Council are providing hand-held litter pickers and Friends of Ryde Town Hall are calling on local businesses to donate black rubbish sacks.
“Ryde Town Council is proud to support local residents and businesses coming together for a community litter pick. By joining forces, we can make a tangible difference in keeping our town clean and beautiful. Ryde is a buzzing place to be, and we hope to see you on Monday 8 May for The Big Help Out,” Mayor of Ryde, Councillor Michael Lilley said.
For more information go to:
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www.twitter.com/FriendsOfRydeTH
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