THE founder of a Wyre Forest litter-picking group has been given an award by Prime Minister Boris Johnson for her "extraordinary efforts" keeping the district tidy.

The Pickup Artists' founder Michelle Medler, from Kidderminster, is the 1,482nd recipient of the PM's daily Points of Light award, recognising outstanding individuals who make a difference in their community.

In a personal letter to Michelle, Mr Johnson said: “I want to thank you for your extraordinary efforts to keep our country tidy.

“I was lost in admiration to hear of how you have inspired a community of volunteer litter-pickers across Wyre Forest, working all year round to keep your streets, canals and countryside free from rubbish and clean for all to enjoy.

“So as we take part in the Great British September Clean, and take stock of a summer in which we have all valued our local spaces more than ever, I am delighted to recognise your service to others by naming you as the UK’s 1482nd Point of Light.”

The Pickup Artists brings together more than 1,000 volunteers for litter picks across Wyre Forest.

Michelle is a Litter Hero ambassador for Keep Britain Tidy and also implemented a reward scheme with local businesses to provide discounts in restaurants and cafes for litter-pickers.

She also adopted a stretch of canal path in Kidderminster from the Canal and River Trust to help maintain the area for people to enjoy and to protect local wildlife.

Responding to the Prime Minister's announcement, Michelle said: "The Pickup Artists' is made up of an amazing group of like-minded people who all want to make a difference to where they live.

"I've made so many new friends, visited beauty spots I didn't know existed and have enjoyed inspiring others to pick up litter.

"This award is for everyone of them who supports the group by encouraging others to join us and help to educate children about the damaging impact litter has on our planet."

Richard McIlwain, deputy CEO of Keep Britain Tidy, said: “We are delighted to hear that Michelle, one of Keep Britain Tidy’s Litter Heroes ambassadors, has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the community and the environment.

“The work Michelle has done to establish her group The Pickup Artists is inspiring and we believe sends a strong message to the people of Kidderminster that there is a community who love their local area and will fight to protect it.”