The first of four scheduled beach cleans for 2023 saw a team of almost 30 volunteers turn out to help tackle the litter, including representatives from Royal Caribbean and charity Tangle.
The group’s mission was to fill two suitcases with litter – which equates to around 50kg – and after two hours of scouring the seemingly tidy beach, the team collected around 12 bags worth of rubbish and an old shopping trolley.
Participants included Travel Village Group chief executive Phil Nuttall; Travel Village Group managing director John Warr; Royal Caribbean vice president EMEA Ben Bouldin; Royal Caribbean key account manager David Hearn; and Royal Caribbean Group director of sales Stuart Byron.
Nuttall urged the travel industry to start thinking more responsibly and sustainability, regardless on how big or small the impact will be.
"It’s important for us all to be looking at what we can do to help our planet," he added. The important thing is to do your bit.
"Whether that’s cycling to work instead of driving, helping local projects like beach cleans, supporting businesses that re-purpose marine waste, or investing in new technologies that reduce pollution and energy consumption. It’s all about ensuring that we leave something better for the next generations."
Travel Village Group content manager Jess Clayton added: "As a Fylde Coast business, spanning eight decades, we have deep roots in the community, and, as a travel agency that specialises in cruise, we also have a commitment to the future of our oceans.
"What better way to show our appreciation, for both of these, than by giving back with our time and energy. The feedback on the day, by locals and tourists alike, was incredibly heartwarming."
