VOLUNTEERS taking part in Carluke Development Trust's litter pick day on Saturday filled more than 150 refuse bags with rubbish that had been littering four designated walkways in the town.
An assortment of other dumped items, some too big to bag, were also reclaimed and taken to pick-up points for collection by South Lanarkshire Council Land Services.
While the Trust was very appreciative and praised the efforts and enthusiasm of those who gave up their Saturday morning to take part, there was disappointment that more volunteers had not come forward.
A spokesman said: "Despite a household leaflet drop, poster advertising, and extensive press coverage about the event, the response had been less than anticipated with under 50 people taking part.
"Our own organisation also has almost 200 registered members so it does beg the question: 'Where were you when we needed you most?' ''
There were many positives from the day such as the Crawforddyke Create team linking up with the Trust to tackle the Jock's Burn route and Carluke Gala Queen elect Jennifer Rintoul litter picking with her grandfather on the Old Lanark Road route.
Local councillors also chipped in by donning cleaning gear and doing their bit on all the routes, but overall it was felt that the numbers could have been greater.
The Trust would like to thank John Simpson from Land Services and his staff at Sandy Road cleansing depot for all their help and advice.
Thanks also to Keep Scotland Beautiful, estate agents Century 21 for sponsoring the printing of the leaflets, and Carluke's Stewart Street Co-op store for donating bottles of water for thirsty litter pickers on the day.