COMMUNITY-minded youngsters have been helping to keep their village looking its best.

Almost 30 Beaver Scouts from 1st Barnton Scout Group focused their attention on a public footpath on the edge of a farmer’s field, and collected eight bags of rubbish in the process.

The litter pickers were accompanied by Beaver Scout Leader Louise Robinson and Assistant Leader Jan Whalley, and the team filled litter bags donated by Barnton Parish Council.

“We concentrated on the public footpath, which is on the perimeter of a farmer’s field, accessed via the lane which leads to Barnton Cricket Club,” said Louise.

“The rubbish included cans, bottles, plastic wrappers and dog faeces, and we collected eight bags of rubbish in less than an hour.

“The Beavers asked why people did not care about leaving rubbish, and were concerned about its impact on animals and the environment.

“They did the litter pick as part of a programme where they work towards gaining badges, and collecting litter gives them a sense of pride in their community.”

The litter pick was undertaken on Monday evening, and the litter bags were provided by the parish council after it was approached by the Scout Group.