Community groups across three continents are making final preparations ahead of International Clean Up Mansfield Day next week.

More than 30 groups, including businesses, schools, community groups, councils and friends of parks groups, are taking part on 2nd April in Mansfield, UK, Canada, the USA and Australia.

Last year more than 200 bags of rubbish were collected in one day and the unique event won a community award from the national Keep Britain Tidy campaign.

In Mansfield, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Corner House Care Home, schools, McDonald’s, Guides and Scouts are among those that have planned litter picks and clean-up activities.

All the litter collected in Mansfield on the day will be displayed in the Market Place beside an information stand to showcase the results of the day.

Mansfield Shire Council, schools and community groups in Victoria, Australia, are taking part. The council is encouraging everyone in the community to pick up at least one piece of litter on the day.

Ma and Pa’s Kettle, a restaurant in Mansfield, Missouri, is planning to plant flowers and put up new signs. A community centre has signed up.

The City of Mansfield and Downtown Mansfield in Ohio, the USA, are encouraging businesses, schools and friends of parks groups to clean the neighbourhood.

In Pennsylvania, the Chamber of Commerce is joining forces with Mansfield University to hold clean-up events later in April when snow has melted.

Mansfield Outdoor Centre in Ontario, Canada, which is currently under several feet of snow, also plans to take part at a later date.

As well as litter picks, there are plans for long-term environmental improvements such as planting trees, painting fences and making bird boxes.

All local participants will be invited to attend a ceremony where they will be presented with certificates. Awards will be presented to the best business, school, friends group, community group, young person and international group taking part.

Coun Philip Shields, portfolio holder for the environment, said: “We are delighted that so many groups across the world have signed up. Although the event highlights the importance of keeping your local community tidy on one day, we hope it will result in long-term improvements and encourage people to take pride in their Mansfield throughout the year.”

Visit www.mansfield.gov.uk/cleanup to take part.

Like the International Clean Up Mansfield Day Facebook page at facebook.com/cleanupmansfield to keep up to date with the latest news and to share activities and photos.

For further information, contact Nicola Harvey, recycling and technical officer on 01623 463 374.