Beloved Cheltenham Litter-Picking ‘Legend’ Dies at 92
Cheltenham’s Litter-Picking ‘Legend’ Remembered for His Tireless Community Service
The Cheltenham community is mourning the loss of a beloved local figure, Derek Cole, who passed away just days before Christmas at the age of 92. Despite his advancing years, Cole was known throughout the neighbourhood for his unwavering commitment to keeping the streets clean, earning him the title of a “litter-picking legend.”
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Cole, a retired postman of 35 years, was a fixture in the community, spending two days a week diligently collecting litter along the roads and clearing drains of debris, especially during heavy rain. His dedication was recognised posthumously with a prestigious Litter Legend award from Keep Britain Tidy, an accolade his proud daughter, Susan Cole, accepted on his behalf.
“Dad was well known locally as he was very community minded. Litter picking was just one of the many things he did to help out,” said Susan. “His neighbours have told me they’re now carrying on what he started. We are all so honoured that he was chosen to receive the award and proud that he has left a litter-picking legacy in his community.”
Despite his advancing age and a few recent health setbacks that left him using a walking stick or frame, Cole remained undeterred in his mission to keep Cheltenham tidy. He even participated in last year’s Great British Spring Clean, armed with his trusty bucket and litter-picker, working to remove the discarded cigarette butts and other waste left by visitors to local pubs and restaurants.
What You Need to Know
Derek Cole’s funeral notice described him as a “beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend,” as well as a “staunch charity volunteer and a community supporter.” He was one of several litter-picking champions honoured at the 2026 Keep Britain Tidy Great British Spring Clean Awards, with the ceremony taking place earlier this month at the House of Commons to mark the start of this year’s clean-up campaign.
A spokesperson for Keep Britain Tidy expressed the organisation’s pride in recognising Cole’s outstanding contribution, stating, “Derek was well known locally for his solo litter picks and the pride he took in his neighbourhood. His daughter described him as a hero and an inspiration, and we couldn’t agree more.”