Volunteers teamed up for a litter pick in parkland on the Hardwick Hall estate as part of the nationwide Great Big Green Week.

Community group Chesterfield Litter Pickers and National Trust volunteers cleared rubbish from the outer edge of the estate including an area near the lower ponds.

The concerted effort on Sunday saw 287.15kg of litter (about 45 stones in weight) collected in just two hours from the area leading into the far end of the estate. The litter pick has helped to protect wildlife habitats, reduce pollution, and support the long-term conservation of the area. Collected rubbish is now being recycled to ensure as much as possible doesn't end in landfill.

Gabbie Pattison, of Chesterfield Litter Pickers, said: “We were delighted to get involved with the litter pick at Hardwick and help care for such a beautiful area for the benefit of both the local community and the environment.

Chesterfield Litter Pickers joined forces with National Trust volunteers for a litter pick on the outer edge of the Hardwick estate.

placeholder image — Chesterfield Litter Pickers joined forces with National Trust volunteers for a litter pick on the outer edge of the Hardwick estate.

“We are passionate about keeping our communities and environment clean. Our efforts help protect local wildlife, prevent waterways from becoming polluted, improve public safety, and create cleaner, more welcoming neighbourhoods. Litter picking also provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy fresh air, improve physical health, and support positive mental wellbeing.”

Helen Cashin, community engagement co-ordinator at the National Trust’s Hardwick Hall and Stainsby Mill, said: “Great Big Green Week is all about communities coming together to make a positive difference. We are grateful for the support of Chesterfield Litter Pickers.

“The litter pick was a powerful way for people of all ages to take practical action for the environment while helping to care for the extensive parkland that surrounds the historic Hardwick Hall.”

More than two million people nationwide are expected to participate in Great Big Green Week which is running until June 14, 2026. The UK’s biggest celebration of community action for climate and nature features thousands of events from community growing projects to nature walks.