A GLASWEGIAN who is a full-time wheelchair user has been recognised for his efforts to clean-up Glasgow's South Side.

Edward Kirkwood is not paid for his efforts of picking up litter in Shawlands and Queen's Park, but he has now been awarded a prestigious Clean Up Scotland Hero of the month award.

The award is part of the national Clean Up Scotland campaign, organised by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.

And it recognises that Edward has dedicated much of his time over the past six years to help protect and enhance the cleanliness and environmental quality of his local streets and open spaces.

His infectious enthusiasm for the task of cleaning up has even seen his efforts go viral in a video posted online by one of his many local friends and supporters.

Edward, who is a former Evening Times Community Champion, is keen to regard his efforts as “his work”, and he says it is a great way to ensure he gets out the house and makes a positive contribution to a cleaner, greener Glasgow.

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He said: “I litter pick to keep the vermin away. I litter pick any area around my home to keep the place looking clean including around some local pubs and hotels.“

A crowdfunding page has even been set up for the Glasgow Gladiator's Powerchair Football Club player to raise money for a new wheelchair.

He currently plays with his NHS chair but it is hoped a new wheelchair will allow him to compete faster in the sport.

The page has so far raised £5368 from 368 different contributors, most of whom were local Southside residents, who had seen Edward’s cleanup work first hand.

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “I would like to congratulate Edward for his unwavering commitment to keeping his local community clean.

"His efforts help to demonstrate that volunteers can make a massive difference in building civic pride in local areas, whilst sending a clear message to those that drop litter that their carelessness is unacceptable.

"His contribution should inspire us all and shame those who discard their litter irresponsibly.

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“Volunteers are working hard Scotland-wide to improve and enhance their local communities. I would encourage even more people to nominate their local Clean Up Scotland Hero so that they too can receive wider recognition for their hard work.”

The Clean Up Scotland campaign encourages everyone to get involved by visiting www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/cleanupscotland.