Over 30 people took part in Narberth’s first ever community clear-up as the town looked to play its part in looking after the environment.

The clean-up was organised Narberth Time Bank, Plastic Free Narberth, Pembrokeshire Foodbank and Narberth Community Fridge who joined forces for the inaugural Narberth Community Spruce Up.

Inspired by a conversation at an initial time bank meeting, individuals from each group marketed the event.

Thirty-two people turned up for the clean-up despite the poor weather on Sunday, January 26. The group were welcomed by Lee Hind from Pembrokeshire Time Bank Network.

Jobs were then assigned and the litter picking group was split into teams by Clr. Vic Dennis, of Plastic Free Narberth.

The rest of the group took part in the washing of road signs. Litter pickers, hoops and bags were supplied by Plastic Free Narberth, while brushes for cleaning the signs were supplied by Bluestone Community Foundation.

For the people who took part, their efforts were rewarded with a lunch at the Queens Hall.

On offer was spiced carrot soup, bread and cheese, supplied by Narberth Community Fridge.

This was prepared by them and volunteers from Pembrokeshire Foodbank. The soup was served by Foodbank volunteer Nathan Van Poetsch.

Following the success of the community Spruce-Up, the organisers have agreed to hold another event.

For anyone who wishes to get involved, Plastic Free Narberth will continue to litter pick on the last Sunday of every month.

Clr. Vic Dennis said: “Narberth is never a town to stand still. After receiving an award for the cleanest town in the UK last year, the community turned out on a miserable Sunday to help maintain the standards high.

“Our street cleaner does a great job and is respected by all, but the volunteers were out in the harder to reach and less visited areas.

“They all did a great job and I am very grateful for their support.

“The rain stopped as we started and everyone was grateful for the soup and drinks when we finished.

“All ages were happy to chat and make new friends.

“I’m also grateful to all the organisations that have helped plan and support this event.

“I look forward to an even bigger one in three months time.

“In the meantime, Plastic Free Narberth will be out litter picking again on the last Sunday of each month, starting from the car park at Bloomfield Community Centre at 9.30.”

Queens Hall manager, Lara Herde, said: “It was wonderful to host the Community Spruce Up here at the Queens Hall and be part of such a brilliant initiative in our town.

“The efforts of all the volunteers surpassed our expectations and yet again showed how much people care about our community.”

Lee Hind, of Pembrokeshire Time Bank Network, said: “It was great to team up with a consortium of local groups with a common purpose.

“Each group contributed, but the real praise goes to the huge range of volunteers who turned up and gave their time freely to clean up their local area. I’m looking forward to the next one!”

At a meeting of Narberth Town Council held on Tuesday, Clr. Walters apologised for not attending the event, but thanked Clr. Dennis and his team for their efforts.

However, Clr. Elizabeth Rogers said she had concerns regarding people being insured in case a sign was to come down.

She also asked if Pembrokeshire County Council were aware of people washing their property.

Clr. Dennis noted her concerns and said: “We will learn for next time.”