PUPILS from Ysgol Llanbedr have been inspired to design posters which encourage people to think about the local environment having seen litter and dog mess on pavements and playgrounds in the area.

Gwynedd Council’s Tidy Towns officer, Jonathan Neale, was invited to the school to help the children and the posters have been transferred into hardback signs so that they can be put up around the village.

Mr Neale said: “It was a pleasure to work with the children on their anti-litter and dog fouling campaigns. Their pictures are colourful and imaginative and I’m sure they will attract a lot of attention in the area.

"I’m happy that it is the children who are leading on these campaigns, as they have the imagination and enthusiasm to act upon it.”

Local Gwynedd councillor, Annwen Hughes, said: “The children show great community pride and confidence in their decision to improve the quality of their environment. Their efforts show not only their talent and craft, but also their vision for a better, more sustainable world. I commend their efforts – well done children!”

Gwynedd Council’s Highways and Municipal Cabinet Member, Gareth Wyn Griffiths, added: “Once again, Gwynedd’s children have reported on environmental problems in their community, and, with the help of the Tidy Towns scheme, they have been able to do something about it.

Everyone has a responsibility to prevent litter and dog mess but it is good to see Gwynedd’s children educating us about these problems.

“Though Gwynedd compares well with other areas in Wales in terms of street cleanliness and littering, its effects are still a persistent problem effecting some communities. Those who thoughtlessly throw rubbish in any public place are committing a crime. A person found guilty of littering can receive a fine of up to £2,500.”

In Gwynedd it is a criminal offence to take a dog onto designated children’s play areas, school grounds, sports pitches and certain beaches (April-September) or to allow your dog to foul any public space. Offenders are liable to receive a £100 fixed penalty, with failure to pay potentially leading to a court summons and a fine of up to £1,000.

For more information regarding Gwynedd Council’s Tidy Towns scheme, contact the team on 01766 771 000 or send an e-mail to [email protected]

The Tidy Towns scheme is funded by the Welsh Government to improve the local environment.