Ten years ago after being disgusted by the amount of rubbish on Bray Head Séamus Connor placed an ad in the local paper looking for volunteers to help do something about it.
The plan was a once-off beach clean up but it was such a success that the volunteers were eager to make it a regular thing. Out of that, the Bray Coast Care group was formed and has being going strong ever since.
CoastCare Helping to keep Bray clean
For those past 10 years they have worked tirelessly to keep the Bray coastline looking clean and this achievement was celebrated on Saturday with an open event in the Martello Hotel in Bray.
They were joined by several other organisations who all work with the same goal in mind – to keep Bray and the coast beautiful. The groups included Bray Tidy Towns, Common Ground, Sea Life, Marine Dimensions, Wicklow County Council and Clean Coasts. Each group gave presentations on the work they do and what they do is inspiring.
Whether it’s protecting the marine environment through education and awareness or simply getting out there and getting your hands dirty, these groups are really making a difference. The type of great work going on includes painting benches, rejuvenating places that have fallen into disrepair, removing graffiti and planting beautiful garden beds and edible gardens.
The meeting was followed by an opportunity to chat and exchange ideas with each of the groups. There are now hopes an umbrella group can be formed so these groups can come together and work with each other more often.
@CleanCoasts roadshow at the Bray Coast Care 10th anniversary pic.twitter.com/o2olR1mDFF
— Coast Monkey (@Coast_Monkey) March 4, 2017
This is just one success story and these types of groups are all around the country. Just average local people who care deeply about their area, about their coastline coming together, getting out there and doing something to make it better. These groups are always looking for new volunteers so even if you can spare an hour or two you can be part of something great too.
Join Bray Coast Care Facebook Page
Visit Bray Tidy Towns
Visit Clean Coasts
Visit Common Ground
Visit Marine Dimensions
Visit Sea Life
