The Dudley North MP co-ordinated a social distanced litter pick with the Priory Park Boxing Club and the Friends of Wrens Nest Nature Reserve.

Several spots within the reserve have become a beacon for fly-tippers. As a result, local MP, Marco Longhi wanted to help remove the mess. Mr Longhi said:

“This criminal activity is unacceptable; we are so fortunate to have such a beautiful nature reserve in Dudley - it must be respected. I am working with the Council to find a lasting solution, including CCTV and barriers, which will also block access to scrambler motorbikes which are becoming a nuisance.   

“It was great to have the support of so many young people from the boxing club as well as the friend’s group who do such a fantastic job. For me, this really is the jewel in the crown for Dudley, the history and diversity of fossils is unprecedented.   

“When the new wardens base is in place, I believe the reserve will become even more accessible and will be another deterrent for these fly-tippers. I am really looking forward to seeing this developed soon."

Sally Webb, from the Priory Park Boxing club added:

“I’ve been walking around the nature reserve 3 to 4 times a week and, whilst it’s a stunning place, I had noticed the amount of rubbish building up and fly tipping in certain areas has really upset me. We held a virtual meeting and we as a club wanted to do something about it.  

"It was at the same time that I saw Marco’s Facebook Post about the same thing and sent him a message about wanting to help. Straight away we emailed and talked on Zoom and got it set up.

"We, as a club, love helping the community and hopefully, we can set a good example for others seeing us out and about and will think twice about dropping litter or helping us out in the future. We all have a duty to protect these areas that we live in."