Dedicated Teenager Frazer Cleans Up

Dedicated teenager Frazer Williams has Spina Bifida and uses a wheelchair but that doesn't stop him carrying out clean ups in his community.

The 18-year-old has signed up with Glasgow's Environmental Task Force as a Neighbourhood Improvement Volunteer (NIV) and regularly grabs his gloves and litter picker to collect rubbish near his home.

Frazer from Dalton Street, Parkhead, detests litter and first caught the clean-up bug as a pupil at Newhills Secondary School where he took part in class events.

The football fan attends John Wheatley College where he is studying Life Learning Skills and also trains at Tollcross gym.

Frazer said: "I like to see the place tidy. I enjoy going out and doing my clean ups. I think more people should do it."

His proud mum Anna said: "Frazer doesn't want any help with his clean ups. He gets satisfaction and a sense of independence from doing it on his own. It makes him feel as if he is doing an important job to improve our area.

"The Task Force has given him support and all the gear. He has gloves, bags and a litter grabber. He puts his Environmental Task Force vest over the back of his wheelchair when he goes out because he says no one would see it if he wore it sitting down!"

Mum-of-three, Anna, laughed: "Frazer doesn't clear up after himself in the house but he's really strict about litter in the street! He just cleans the area round about the house, so we can keep an eye on him - every little helps. I suppose if everyone did something, it would make a big difference."

Councillor Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of the Environmental Task Force, joined Frazer on his latest clean up.

He said: "Frazer is a real inspiration and his commitment to looking after his street is outstanding! Despite the personal challenges he faces, he has a passion for his area and is determined to keep it looking its best. It was fantastic to meet him today.

"I hope Frazer's drive and enthusiasm as a Neighbourhood Improvement Volunteer will encourage others to follow his example!"

Contact the Environmental Task Force to find out how you could become a NIV. Tweet them a message on @theenvtaskforce or phone 0141 276 7441.