Volunteers turn 'festive energy into civic action' at Diwali clean up in Slough park

Volunteers took part in the first organised clean-up drive following Diwali celebrations in a Slough park today (Tuesday).

Salt Hill Park was covered in firework debris and plastic waste after last year’s festivities, and two community groups banded together to tackle the mess this time around.

Five volunteers from the Indian Diaspora in the UK and Slough Anti-Litter Society spent hours restoring the community space and collected more than 30 bags of debris.

This was mainly packaging and leftover debris from fireworks and sparklers.

Smaller, informal efforts to clean up after Diwali celebrations had taken place before, but this was the first time the groups came together under a ‘coordinated plan’ with supplies, safety gear, and volunteers. 

“The idea sparked during casual conversations among the core IDUK Team while discussing the Diwali plan for home and community events,” said IDUK member Ajay Murudkar.

“Instead of waiting for the council workers to handle it all, we decided to take responsibility for their shared space.

“What began as a simple idea — “let’s clean up our Slough's park after Diwali” — grew into a full-fledged community movement.

“It was the perfect moment to turn festive energy into civic action — celebrating light by bringing cleanliness and care to our environment.”

He said next year, the groups will run a bigger campaign and involve more community organisations and volunteer groups.