For more than a decade, Bootle Action Group has been transforming streets and public spaces across Sefton, tackling litter, preventing environmental neglect and inspiring residents to take pride in where they live.  

Well-known in the community

Established by Michael Brennan in February 2016, the volunteer-led organisation has become a well-known part of the local community.  

National recognition 

Their work was recognised nationally when it received the King's Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), the highest honour awarded to local volunteer groups in the UK and the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary organisations. 

The award was officially announced last year, coinciding with the King's Birthday Honours celebrations, with the formal presentation ceremony taking place earlier this year. 

Supporting volunteers

Sefton Council encourages litter-picking groups across the borough to take part in the annual Great British Spring Clean. Bootle Action Group continues to play an active role by organising litter picks and helping to keep the local area clean and tidy. To support volunteers, the Council provides litter-picking equipment and bags.  

As with many community litter-picking groups across the borough, the Council also collect and dispose of the waste gathered by the Bootle Action Group during their clean-ups. 

15,000 sacks of litter 

The group has removed more than 15,000 sacks of litter from local streets, parks and open spaces since its formation.  

More than litter-picking

Their work at Oxford Gardens in Bootle saw them plant new flower beds, restore benches, a community noticeboard and funded blossom trees. The project was recognised with a Level 5 Outstanding Award from the Royal Horticultural Society in 2025. 

The group has also funded and planted 20 street trees, helping to improve air quality, increase biodiversity and enhance the appearance of Bootle, for future generations.  

Bootle Action Group have also funded eight new litter bins, hosted Christmas light switch-on events and provided volunteer support to charities, community groups and local events. 

Michael Brennan, founder of Bootle Action Group, said: 
“When we started in 2016, our aim was simple, to make a positive difference to the litter in Bootle. Over the years, we've seen people come together, take pride in our area, and show what can be achieved when a community works together. We have not only created cleaner streets but established friendships and a stronger community spirit, the impact has gone far beyond litter-picking. 

“I am incredibly proud that our volunteers' efforts have been recognised, especially receiving the King's Award for Voluntary Service, the UK's highest honour for volunteer groups. As well as the Liverpool Echo Community Impact Award. 

“Our greatest achievement will always be the positive difference we've made to Bootle and the people who live here.” 

Cllr Peter Harvey Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Street Scene said: 
“Bootle Action Group has made a remarkable contribution to the local community over the past decade. 

“We take a robust approach to littering in Sefton. As a council we have invested an extra £1million this year in tackling litter and fly-tipping – but we cannot beat this scourge alone. 

“Together, through the dedication of volunteers and litter picking groups we can create cleaner streets, greener public spaces and a stronger sense of pride in Sefton.  

“We are grateful for Bootle Action Group’s continued commitment to improving Bootle for residents and thank all our litter picking groups for the work they do, to help keep Sefton clean. 

“We are making Sefton Cleaner and Greener, Together.” 

To find out more about Waste and Street Cleansing in Sefton visit: www.sefton.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling.