Litter picking heroes across Powys are celebrating after one of the most successful ‘Tidy Newtown Weeks’

Litter picking heroes across Powys are celebrating after one of the most successful ‘Tidy Newtown Weeks’ yet.

Between October 19 and 24 , 174 volunteers took part in 17 clean-ups, collecting a staggering 177 bags of litter and three skip loads of bigger household items.

The 177 bags consisted largely of discarded plastic and glass bottles, cans and food wrappers, and cigarette butts. While the more unusual finds included car parts, broken furniture and a few soggy nappies!

It is hoped that the success of Tidy Newtown Week will inspire other people to look after their local environment.

Jodie Griffith, Keep Wales Tidy Project Officer, who supports litter picking across Powys, said:

“Thank you to everyone who took part in Tidy Newtown Week 2026. While it can be disheartening to see the impact litter has on our beautiful area, it is truly inspiring to see so many people giving their time and working together to overcome this.

“We hope the week encourages even more people to get involved and experience the benefits of volunteering, both for their community and their own wellbeing. Whether you can spare an hour or would like to volunteer more regularly with friends, family or neighbours, Keep Wales Tidy can provide the support, equipment and opportunities to help you take action and make a lasting difference.”

Tidy Newtown week has been running since 2022, in partnership with Powys County Council and Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council and, who help to organise two week-long events each year in spring and autumn, bringing together local residents, community groups, businesses and housing associations to help Keep Newtown Tidy.

Councillor Richard Church, Cabinet Member for Legal and Regulatory Services, said: "We are delighted to work in partnership with Newtown Town Council and Keep Wales Tidy to support Tidy Newtown Week. It's amazing to see the difference that a group of volunteers dedicating their time to improving their local area can make.

“I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who joined in to help make Newtown cleaner and greener."

Councillor Darryl Gwilt, one of the Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council Lead Councillors of Tidy Newtown said: "We are delighted with the success of this year's Tidy Newtown Autumn campaign. It has been fantastic to see so many residents, volunteers and community groups coming together to take pride in our town and help keep Newtown looking its best.

“From organised litter picks in the town centre to individuals collecting litter in their own neighbourhoods, every contribution has made a real difference. The campaign has shown the strength of community spirit in Newtown, and we would like to thank everyone who gave their time and energy to support this important initiative. Together, we have created a cleaner, more welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors alike."

To find out how to volunteer, go to the Keep Wales Tidy website www.keepwalestidy.cymru or contact Jodie Griffith at [email protected]