Campaigners stage mini version of COP26 conference in Greenock

The event on October 7 is the brainchild of a campaign group called The Literati Guide to Inverclyde, which supports community clean-ups in beauty spots across the district and has an ever-growing army of support.

Now in the run up to the crucial summit the group are organising a local gathering in the Beacon, to find ways to help save the planet closer to home.

Youngsters like Heidi Mulholland and Penny Way, both four, have both been involved in litter picking and their generation is the inspiration behind the ambitious bid to make changes locally.

Organiser Stephen Henry said: "This workshop is a way to look at climate change and what we are doing locally.

"We have so many events now, with communities regularly out on clean-ups.

"Under the banner of Take Pride in Inverclyde we want to work in partnership to make a difference.

"We have a real momentum now and we want to build on that.

"With the COP26 coming up it is an ideal time to talk about what we can do.

"What is great is the number of children involved - this is about looking after the planet for the next generation."

Young Heidi's mum Ashley McLachlan said: "I am so proud of Heidi.

"She said she wanted to help pick up litter with the ladies.

"We have been at Lunderston Bay, it is great to be out and about."

Dad Callum Watson admits he's also been moved by his daughter Penny's determination to do her bit.

He said: "She was walking home from nursery and she said she wanted to pick up the litter so it doesn't end up in the water."

The groundbreaking workshop is being held in partnership with the Beacon and Keep Scotland Beautiful, with MP Ronnie Cowan joining in along with representatives from the council.

The busy Literati team have three months of events planned, with their litter collections making a big difference to our beauty spots.

The group's Vicky Cookson said: "We need to help people make the connection between what happens here and how it affects the planet."