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02.03.2009

Thames 21 Deep Clean 2009

Media release from Thames21

Thames21 logoLondon's leading waterways charity Thames21 will deliver the first DEEP CLEAN this year on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 March on the Isle of Dogs, East London.

Taking advantage of the lowest tide of 2009, Thames21 is appealing for volunteers to help make a lasting difference to one of the most littered stretches of foreshore in London.The low tide also coincides with the closure of the Thames Barrier meaning longer access will be possible to the foreshore. Volunteers can participate in as much or as little as they are able to, and help make a real difference in this area.

The Isle of Dogs is one of the most littered sections of the River Thames. Most of the rubbish in the area is plastic litter – predominantly plastic bags. These bags originate from all across London, they are carried downstream by the river and accumulate on this inside bend. From this area alone, Thames21 and volunteers have cleared at least 30,000 plastic carrier bags clogging up the foreshore over the past year, but there is still much to do to improve this site.

Thames21 has been cleaning the Isle of Dogs foreshore with volunteers for over five years and in this time it has become dramatically cleaner. On the days of our 'Deep Clean' the tide is a lot lower than normal, which presents a great opportunity to tackle lower areas of the Thames foreshore that are usually covered by water.

Those volunteering will get the chance to give something back to London's environment, have the rare chance to get onto the foreshore, meet like-minded people and get a new perspective on London's waterways.

Volunteers are welcome to attend at any of the times listed below and will be provided with all equipment and guidance during the sessions.

Thursday 12 March 8.00am - 11.30am

Friday 13 March 8.30am - 11.00am

Meeting point - Newcastle Draw Dock, off Saunders Ness Road, E14.

Nearest tube: Island Gardens (DLR) is just a short walk away.

Thames21 will provide all equipment including boots, health & safety briefing and support, rubbish bags and litter collection. Volunteers should wear old clothes appropriate to the weather. An adult must accompany people under the age of 16. Bottled water and toilets will be onsite.