MEMBERS of an Eskdale childcare group have received national recognition for efforts to protect the environment.
Langholm Playcare, based at the town’s community centre, are licensed to look after children up to the age of 16.
They have received previous accolades for the environmentally friendly way they operate but have now scooped the top Eco-Schools Green Flag Award by Keep Scotland Beautiful.
The group have particularly focused on litter, health and well-being, food and environment, based on United Nations sustainability goals.
An educational and practical programme within their premises and wider community was carefully logged and audited. It included recycling, litter picks and responsible consumption during everyday life.
The group’s achievements led to personal congratulations from Keep Scotland Beautiful chief executive Derek Robertson, who said: “Langholm Playcare and their eco committee have worked extremely hard to gain their first full Green Flag Award.”
Adding his congratulations was Dumfriesshire Constituency MSP Oliver Mundell, who takes a special interest in childcare issues at Holyrood.
Mr Mundell said: “Langholm Playcare has become an important part in the life of Eskdale since being founded 23 years ago and I was delighted to be invited along to celebrate their latest success.
“Their efforts to improve the environment and in promoting an ethos that we can all do our bit to protect the planet is capturing the imagination of the children while also influencing the local community.
“The Green Flag is now displayed with great pride in the Langholm Playcare premises and the enthusiastic team are already finalising a strategy to try to retain the status in future years.”
