Across Sefton, community-led beach cleans are bringing people together to protect marine life, preserve natural beauty, and take pride in the local environment.
Crosby Beach
Friends of Crosby Beach have sessions once a month on a Sunday morning 10.30am to 12.15pm (date depending on the tides). They set out their equipment stall on the prom below Crosby Baths (the Mariners Road entry to the beach). They will supply you with a yellow hi-vis vest, gloves, and a litter-picker, bag hoop and bin bags. To find out when the next organised session is taking place, keep an eye on socials or visit focb.org.uk
Ainsdale & Southport Beach
Green Sefton runs monthly litter-picking sessions throughout the year, open to everyone who wants to help care for the local coastline. All equipment is provided, but volunteers are asked to bring their own gloves, wear sturdy footwear, and dress appropriately for the weather.
Upcoming December sessions:
Saturday 14th December, 1pm – 3pm: Queens Jubilee Nature Trail, Southport, PR8 2BZ
Wednesday 18th December, 11am – 1pm: Meet at the Ainsdale Discovery Centre, Shore Road, PR8 2QB
For more information or to get involved, email greensefton@sefton.gov.uk
Hightown Beach
The Hightown Beach Clean Group hosts community beach cleans roughly once a month, with two litter-pick stations set up at Hightown. During the winter months, the group also works in partnership with Green Sefton to run habitat events every Tuesday, with occasional weekend events, to help maintain the dune environment and protect the specialist species that call it home. For updates and event details, follow the group on Facebook at Hightown Beach Clean Group, or email hightownbeachclean@hotmail.com to join the mailing list.
Formby Beach
Formby & Freshfield Beach Litter Angels typically run evening beach cleans and take a short break from organised events during the colder months. Anyone interested in joining future sessions can follow the group on Facebook for the latest news and event dates.
Beach cleaning isn’t just good for the environment – it’s fun, rewarding, and surprisingly relaxing. It’s a chance to enjoy fresh sea air, get some gentle exercise, and feel the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping to keep our local beaches clean and safe.
Whether you choose to join an organised session or take part in a solo beach clean, please remember to follow essential beach safety guidelines:
• Avoid muddy areas exposed at low tide, it’s easy to become stuck.
• Plan your clean during a receding tide to avoid the risk of being cut off by the incoming tide.
• Dress appropriately for the weather: wear warm, waterproof layers in cold or windy conditions.
• Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear – hidden hazards such as broken glass can cause serious injury.