From tyres to road signs: Kells, Connor & Glenwherry Angling Club make impact with river clean-up

A stretch of the Kells Water River has been given a new lease of life after volunteers rolled up their sleeves and removed a startling haul of waste in just a matter of hours.

On Saturday, February 28, members of Kells, Connor & Glenwherry Angling Club carried out their first river clean-up day — and the scale of what was uncovered highlights both the pressures facing local waterways and the power of community action.

By the end of the session, the team had removed more than 20 bags of rubbish, four car tyres, a bike, two road signs and even a set of ladders from the river and its surrounding banks, alongside “countless other bits of waste”.

Reflecting on the effort, the club said: “What a day! Our first river clean-up day is officially complete — and what an effort it was!”

A total of 18 volunteers took part, giving up their time to clear debris and improve the condition of the river.

The club praised their commitment, stating:

“A massive thank you to our 18 volunteers who gave up their time and worked tirelessly throughout the day. Your commitment to protecting and improving our local river is something to be truly proud of.”

Young members of Kells. Connor & Glenwherry Angling Club helping out on Saturday’s cleanup of the river

Particular recognition was given to the club’s younger members, who were out in force on the day.

“It was especially fantastic to see our junior members getting involved — rolling up their sleeves, working hard, and showing real pride in their river. They are a credit to the club and proof that the future of our waterways is in safe hands,” the club added.

The initiative also drew support from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, whose backing the club described as instrumental in making the clean-up possible.

Councillor Matthew Warwick attended the event, taking part in the work on the ground. The club said:

“A special mention to Councillor Matthew Warwick for coming along, getting stuck in, and leading by example — your support on the ground really does make a difference.”

Once collected, the waste was processed with assistance from Waveney Recycling Yard, whose team helped to segregate and responsibly manage the material removed from the river.

For the angling club, the day marks more than a tidy-up. It signals a renewed sense of stewardship over a local natural asset and a visible commitment to protecting it for future generations.

“This is just the beginning — together we’re making a real difference,” the club said.

With significant volumes of waste lifted in a single morning, the message is clear: when communities act, change is immediate — and it shows.