Say hello to Wakefield’s young litter heroes making a big difference
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Wakefield Council is celebrating the fantastic efforts of young local litter heroes who are stepping up to keep the district’s streets clean and safe for everyone.
Proving that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility and that every effort makes a huge difference.
“Our litter heroes work together with our dedicated team who sweep streets, empty bins, and clear litter every day. We can’t do it alone, tackling litter is a shared responsibility. That’s why it’s so inspiring to see the difference young people are making in their communities.
“Our young litter heroes show how big a difference one person can make by loving their community. Their passion for keeping their communities safe and clean is inspiring.”
Cllr George Ayre
Cabinet Member for Environment and Civic Services
George, 9, and Edward, 7, from Wakefield have been passionate about litter picking since they were toddlers, encouraged by their mum and grandma.
Earlier this year, George had an idea to help tackle litter in a local ginnel by encouraging more responsible behaviour. Thanks to his passion for caring for the local green spaces, the area is now cleaner and better looked after by the local community.
Mum, Donna Speight, said: “I am extremely proud of how the boys care for the environment and our local community. They love to keep our local area clean and tidy, and they always feel good afterwards knowing they have made a difference. People often thank them for their efforts when they are out litter picking.”
To recognise his fantastic efforts, George received a Vision Award from his school and became a vision ambassador for embodying the school’s values.
Another young litter hero, Jacob Jackson, 12, from Ackworth was inspired to help his community after seeing an elderly man struggle to walk along a icy path covered in leaves. Determined to help, he returned the next day with his shovel to clear the path. He now regularly goes out to make sure the paths are clean and litter-free for all to use. After seeing the fantastic job Jacob had done, he was invited to join the local group Litter Fairies.
Jacob said: “I like doing it because I want to help as many people as possible and so I know no one will slip or fall if they were walking down the path. No matter the weather, I make sure that the path is easy to walk on. Most people when walking past, they’re always really grateful and quite shocked people my age do it.”
Jacob’s dad, Craig Jackson, shared his pride: “We’re so proud of him and what he is doing for the community. He is helping to champion good deeds amongst youngsters, especially regarding clearing snow and ice from paths, leaves and litter picking too.”
His mum, Abbey Jackson, said: “Jacob only thinks of others. He spends so much time out in the community picking up litter, shovelling the path. I’m so proud of him. Especially when I see people on the local Facebook group talking about how he has made their life easier, and how polite he is.”
Earlier this year, Jacob was recognised for his work in the community when he was named a finalist in the BBC Make a Difference Awards in the Young Hero category.
These inspiring litter heroes demonstrate the positive impact the district’s young people are having in their communities. If you want to get involved in making a difference, start by attending a Community Action Day, organised by councillors and supported by Wakefield Council. Find out more about community action days at www.wakefield.gov.uk/communityaction.