Bag a day keeps the litter away

HEATHER KENT, 11, lives in Fairford, Gloucestershire, with her parents Julie, 40, an assistant shop manager and Bob, 57, a painter and decorator.

HEATHER: People worry about how plastic’s endangering sea life but I’ve seen with my own eyes how it’s harming wild animals. I found a squirrel eating plastic in the woods. It could have killed him and it made me really upset.

I just don’t understand why people drop litter. It’s really upsetting that it’s often adults and older children who are just too lazy to go to a bin.

I decided to do something positive last year. Instead of giving up chocolate or crisps for Lent, I decided to fill a carrier bag with litter every day.

When Lent ended, there was no way I could stop, because I’d already made such a difference. I have a little motto: ‘A bag a day keeps the litter away.’ I carry a plastic bag with me when I walk my dog, Alice, and pick up fallen rubbish.

If an area needs a serious clean, I persuade my parents or friends to help. My biggest single haul is 295 plastic bottles from a lay-by.

MUM JULIE: Heather’s famous in the village as our little ecowarrior. She’s just passionate about the environment and eager to educate people. She’s certainly educated me.