SCHOOL pupils across Wychavon are taking on the litter louts thanks to free education sessions funded by the district council.

More than 500 children have already taken part in Covid-19 Secure outdoor anti-litter sessions since the scheme launched in mid-March.

They learn about why littering is anti-social, the damage it does to the environment and the risk it poses to wildlife.

Pupils also take part in a litter pick with an added challenge to hunt out the oldest bit of litter they can find.

The prize so far is in the hands of a pupil at Abbey Park Middle School in Pershore who found a crisp packet dating back 40 years to 1981.

Teachers are also given a lesson plan to run follow-up sessions and are encouraged to sign up for the Wychavon Adopt a Street volunteer litter picking scheme, so pupils can continue to keep their community clean and tidy.

The sessions are run by local company Little Litter Warriors and funded as part of Wychavon’s anti-litter campaign. Every school across the district will be offered the chance to host at least one session per class every year.

Sharon Casswell, client services manager for the council, said: “It is fantastic to see so many children getting involved in learning about the damage littering causes and doing something about it by signing up to become part of our Adopt a Street volunteer litter picking team.

“They are setting a fantastic example to others who I hope will be inspired to follow their lead and start putting their rubbish in the bin.”

Karen Blanchfield, Director of Little Litter Warriors, said: “This is an exciting opportunity educating pupils through schools on the impact of litter pollution. As a litter heroes ambassador for Keep Britain Tidy, I am passionate about educating children on why they should take individual responsibility with their litter decisions and why it is important to dispose of this litter responsibly.

“The litter pick practical sessions are a great way to engage the children in a fun outdoor litter hunt that brings to light just how long a piece of litter has remained in the environment. The teacher classroom sessions allow the children to share their ideas on how they can implement Wychavon’s Adopt a Street initiative to help manage the litter around their school community. I am delighted to be working with Wychavon who are investing in the environment for future generations.”