Chadderton boy given special award for litter picking work

Thomas Stewart, 5, was presented with the special honour from High Sheriff Diane Hawkins at a school assembly at Corpus Christi Primary School, where Thomas attends.

He is said to be "over the moon" with his award and he hopes to inspire more children and adults to take pride in where they live.

Thomas began litter picking as part of a homework assignment as part of an Earth Day project, choosing to pick litter at the old library site on the corner of Whitegate Lane and Broadway.

Since then, he has picked up litter every Saturday for over a year and a Facebook page called We are South Chadderton has been set up and has over 400 members. The page records the litter picks Thomas has been involved in.

Thomas in action.

Thomas's parents Paul and Rebecca said they are "so proud" of him after he was given his award.

Rebecca Stewart said: "He only does it because he loves doing it and we support him in the hope that other people and children will take pride in there areas."

Paul Stewart said Thomas was recommended for an award by deputy lieutenant for Greater Manchester Lieutenancy Glyn Potts, whom he wanted to thank.

He said Thomas was not old enough to be nominated for the award they had in mind, with High Sheriff Hawkins making a special recognition award for Thomas's efforts.

Thomas with the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Diane Hawkins.

Thomas leads litter picks that include volunteers across South Chadderton, with one of his favourite locations being the old library site, which he now calls "his area".

Another favourite spot of his is the car park behind Owd Tatts Pub on Butler Green which is notorious for litter.

According to Mr Stewart, Thomas hopes that his group will continue to grow and he will meets more like-minded people who can support him to cover more areas.

The High Sheriff Special Recognition Award.