A WEE COUNTY scout group has been awarded a Clean Up Scotland Hero award for their efforts to reverse the country’s litter emergency.

Menstrie Scout Group received the accolade from Keep Scotland Beautiful for their help in supporting the Community Council’s litter picks.

The group always makes the effort in making sure the area is looking good for Menstrie’s big events such as the duck race or the gala day.

Lynzie Mack, Menstrie Scout Group leader, said: “It’s part of our badge so we like to help out when we can in the community, cleaning paths and litter picking.

“It’s nice to be recognised for it.

“Something we’ve always taught the youngsters all the way through is tidying up after themselves and leaving places cleaner than you find them.”

Menstrie Scout Group were instrumental in helping the community enjoy Halloween, as members spent three hours clearing the leaves and scraping any debris on the Jubilee Path.

The group was nominated to Keep Scotland Beautiful by Eileen Turnbull, chair of the Menstrie Community Council.

She added: “They do such an awesome job.

“Getting that whole idea of keep it beautiful, don’t drop your litter and take it home, if that can be embedded as early as possible, hopefully for the majority of kids it sticks.”

Keep Scotland Beautiful have been playing their part in helping to address Scotland’s litter emergency.

90 per cent of people in the country agree that littering is a problem across the country, with KSB launching their Spring Clean Scotland 2024 initiative.

Heather McLaughlin, campaigns coordinator at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “I am incredibly pleased to award Menstrie Scout Group with our Clean Up Scotland Hero award.

“They are great role models for every and really deserve this recognition for their enduring determination.

“We know how much people care about our environment, and I hope that Menstrie Scout Group’s award encourages others to get involved and help us keep Scotland beautiful.”