Childhood memories include the sound and sight of the rag and bone man. His call of, ‘Ragbo!’ and the clip clop of his horse brought householders to the street, carrying all kind of discarded items, hoping for a few coins in exchange. The scene was brought to our TV screens some while ago by Steptoe and Son.
In that post second world war period, many items were in short supply, so little was wasted or thrown away. Dustbins were small! What the rag and bone man collected and sold was mostly recycled. Then rationing and shortages became a thing of the past. Steptoe and Son went out of business, and we became a throw-away society, sadly repairs being often more costly than the item was worth. Finding space for landfill became more and more difficult.
So today recycling is seen as essential. We can no longer heedlessly dump items made from scarce resources. We can no longer pollute with impunity. It is clear such human activity is damaging the planet, no-one can avoid the consequences. What we do affects those on the other side of the world as well as ourselves and vice versa. We are all unavoidably connected. A lesson the natural world teaches us, hence biodiversity has become vitally important, recognising the interdependence of different species.
In view of the expected relaxation of the restrictions, we very much hope that the work party planned for Saturday on 3rd April, starting at 10.00am, will be able to take place. Then we will be doing a spring clean along various footpaths around the Village. Meet at the Leisure Centre Car Park. Check our website for confirmation and details.
For information about our activities, or on becoming a member, please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971, or see our website: www.storringtonconservation.org.uk.