Almost 70 Altonians joined forces on October 1 to take part in the annual Keep Britain Tidy Autumn Litter Pick.

Organised by The Alton Society and the Guild of Optimists, the helpers cleared up cigarette butts, food wrappers, glass, cans and even a lorry’s wing mirror from the town’s roads, parks and pavements.

One particularly strong local showed their dedication by picking up the metal part of a lorry tyre in Basingstoke Road and carrying it all the way back to the Alton Assembly Rooms.

Co-organiser Kat Guenioui said: “We were really pleased with the turnout but even more so with the response – so many people said how much they’d enjoyed themselves and asked when the next litter pick would be held.

“It’s a real joy to see people coming together. We’re all so proud of our town and want to keep it looking nice.”

Almost as many bags of rubbish were collected as there were participants, with more than a skip load of black sacks being counted by the end of the day.

Alton Town Council, The Alton Society and the Alton Climate Action Network ensured there were enough litter pickers to go round, and participants represented a wide range of ages and interests.

One woman said: “It’s really helped with my anxiety; it’s given me something to do and a reason to get out.” A man said: “Aren’t we lucky to live in a town full of people who really care about their community?”

Litter pickers were rewarded with a free hot drink from Alton café Bottega dei Sappori.

Co-organiser Bob Booker said: “We’re very grateful to all the people who came out, and to the local community groups and residents’ associations for their support. We couldn’t do it without them.”

The next litter pick, planned by the Alton Climate Action Network and Alton town mayor Cllr Ginny Boxall, is on October 29. Meet in Market Square at 10am.