‘Picktober’, a successful campaign run by Falkirk Council to reduce the amount of litter in the local countryside, is returning for a second year.

Throughout the whole of October, an army of volunteers from schools, community groups and partner organisations will combat littering along the John Muir Way.

A 32-mile stretch of the walk runs through the Falkirk Council area. The walk was only opened in April and runs from coast-to-coast across Scotland.

‘Picktober’ will launch from Blackness Castle at the beginning of the month before tireless work along the Way will conclude with a party in Banknock.

Those involved will look to top last year’s effort, where an 18-mile section along the Union and Forth & Clyde canals was cleared.

Cllr Jim Blackwood, spokesperson for Public Protection said: “‘Picktober’ proved an overwhelming success last year, with over 500 enthusiastic volunteers lifting roughly 5 tonnes of litter.

“These volunteers, from a combination of schools, community groups and local businesses, showed what we can accomplish when we work together.

“With the same effort as last year, I am certain we can turn our section of the John Muir Way into a great asset to the area.”

Partners including Historic Scotland, the John Muir Trust and Scottish Natural Heritage will offer talks and activities to volunteers during October.

Falkirk Council’s Litter Strategy Team will co-ordinate the campaign and all the rubbish collected will be separated and recycled at our two local recycling centres.

To get involved with ‘Picktober’, please register your interest by contacting litterzone@falkirk.gov.uk.