During coronavirus lockdown, Key Stage 2 children at High Oakham Primary School, Mansfield, were asked to help the River Maun Conservation Group as part of their home learning curriculum.

The group of volunteers, who maintain the nature reserves at Oakham and along Quarry Lane, were concerned by an increase in litter and dog excrement in the area.

They asked the children to design a colourful, catchy poster to encourage people to clean up after themselves and their dogs.

Secretary Sarah Spurry said: “We want everyone to come and enjoy this wonderful conservation area that’s just a five-minute walk away from Mansfield town centre.

“Just a few people were spoiling it for others by leaving their litter behind. We thought that posters designed by children would make people think twice about their actions.”

The competition winner was Ethan, whose winning poster carried the slogan ‘Just Love Your Place’. Runner-up Maisey’s poster said ‘Oopsies You Forgot Your Poopsies’.

The two posters have been turned into professional notices and can now be seen along the Quarry Lane and Oakham nature reserves.

The children received their prizes (right) from Colin Etches, past chairman of the Maun Conservation Group and also received congratulations from Andy Chambers, parks and development officer for Mansfield District Council at a socially-distanced presentation.

To find out more about the green space and site of wildlife conservation, visit maunconservationgroup.co.uk or the Maun Conservation Group Facebook page.
The conservation group always welcomes new members.