Government has praised the efforts of volunteers, the Royal Bermuda Regiment, the Mirrors Programme and the Department of Parks workers who helped clean up Southlands on Saturday.

The community clean-up was the first of five scheduled to take place before the end of November.

Kathy Lynn Simmons, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, said: “The focus of our community coming together to preserve the park demonstrates community building and is something that Mirrors promotes.

“We are always encouraging our young people to get involved in community outreach programmes that benefit our island. This spirit of co-operation will go a long way to affect society as a whole.”

Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, Minister of Public Works, said he was happy to see the groups work together for the betterment of the community.

He said: “The teams had a laser focus on Saturday as they removed debris, pulled invasive vines and trees to preserve our ecological heritage.

“Craig Burt, the acting parks director, used the opportunity to train two volunteers on the use of chain saw as they plan to attend all five of the scheduled events”.

Further clean up dates are July 20, August 17, September 21, and November 2. All the clean-ups will run between 9am and 2pm.

Students looking for community service hours or anyone interested in assisting can contact the Mirrors office at 294-9291 or e-mail Mirrors@gov.bm.