Beach Clean

Locals Grateful for CCS Clean-up

On Thursday, 3rd July, a group of staff members who had kindly volunteered to take part in a community litter pick arrived at Hordle Cliff, Milford-on-Sea, a scenic and much-loved spot along the New Forest coastline. Spirits were high as we gathered in the car park, greeted by warm sunshine and a gentle sea breeze. Before us lay a stunning stretch of coastline, with the Isle of Wight looming impressively as the backdrop, appearing so large on the horizon, it felt as though we could almost reach out and touch it.

Armed with litter pickers, gloves, and bags, the team which consisted of Tina, Anna, Emma, Trevor (who, as usual, managed to skilfully avoid being photographed), and Ian (who was behind the camera and served as the chief “You’ve missed a bit!” announcer), made their way down the wooden steps to the pebble beach below. We headed westward and set about hunting for any discarded items.

We began close to the water’s edge, moving steadily along the shoreline, eyes peeled for plastics, wrappers, or any signs of human impact. It was rewarding, albeit sobering, to see just how much litter accumulates in such beautiful natural spaces. A reminder of the importance of ongoing efforts like these. After covering a significant stretch, we doubled back and shifted our attention to the upper section of the beach, weaving in and around the colourful beach huts that characterise this part of the coast.

As we worked, we were met with so much appreciation from beachgoers and locals alike. Several people, preparing for a relaxing day by the sea, came over to thank us. Beach hut owners, dog walkers, and families offered kind words of appreciation. Their gratitude was heartfelt and genuine, a small but powerful reminder that community action does not go unnoticed.

More than just a clean-up, the day offered a chance to connect with colleagues and the local community. After all that hard work, we managed to enjoy a well-earned rest afterwards with a cuppa and a bit of cake.

At CCS, community engagement is at the heart of what we do. We are proud to support the areas in which we operate, not just through our core services, but also by giving back in tangible, meaningful ways.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the visitors and residents of Milford-on-Sea for making us feel so welcome and for supporting our efforts.