A five-year old 'litter picking hero' has become the youngest ever recipient of the Dartfordian award.

Freddie Cozens was presented with the prestigious achievement for his efforts helping pick up litter in and around Central Park in Dartford.

Council leader Jeremy Kite handed the award to Freddie during a school assembly at Temple Hill Primary Academy on Thursday September 19.

The primary pupil got inspired to clean up the streets after seeing his mum collect litter in the community garden and asked her if he too could have a go.

Freddie, who started Year 1 this September, soon captured the hearts of the local community after his mum, Roxanne Stacey posted several pictures of him litter picking on Facebook.

Ms Stacey believes her sons efforts to get his friends involved have really improved his confidence.

She said: "He used to stutter at school but he has been back a few weeks now and is really thriving. He's always proving people wrong, just like his mum."

At just five years old Freddie has become the youngest ever recipient of the Dartfordian award, with the accolade of the oldest belonging to a traffic warden in their 80s.

It is estimated around 120 people have received the award which recognises outstanding contributions from people who 'put more into the town than they take out'.

Addressing the school assembly, Cllr Kite said: "Going outside and seeing the streets looking dirty can make you feel sad.

"We rely on really good people to help us tidy the town.

"We've come across someone really special who is helping us. Freddie is one of our great litter picking heroes.

"But remember while today is Freddie's day, it could be your turn next time to do something great for your community."

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