In the 20th September the sun was shining over Plymouth as VIP (Volunteering in Portsmouth) went to the train station very early in the morning to meet the South East and South West Regions of the Student Volunteers Network.

Who joined for a beach clean in aid of International Clean up the World Week and National Beach Clean Weekend.

The Student Volunteers Network gives students the opportunity to talk to other volunteers, ask questions about volunteer work and to organise regional events.

There were people of all ages from around 4 for 64 cleaning two of Plymouth's beaches; it was great to see all members of society helping their community including students from VIP, BTCV and the Student Volunteers Network (and even the occasional diver cleaning the sea bed).

We found the usual rubbish with some strange things too such as light bulbs, bed linen and glow sticks to name a few. Lots of bin liners later we stopped for a BBQ on Jenny Cliff Beach which was a great time for everyone to meet each other and talk about their volunteering experiences.

All the volunteers had a brilliant time, and we all enjoyed the sunshine and the burgers! Jenny Lowthrop, the Volunteering Development Officer, Student Volunteering Team at Volunteering England said:

"It was wonderful to see students from across the South East and South West regions getting together to clean up Plymouth's beaches, volunteering alongside members of the community and BTCV volunteers."

"I hope more regional events take place to help promote the great work of student volunteers"