Wheelchair user tackling weeds on island’s roads

Aindre Reece-Sheerin wanted to do something about the problem, which has been becoming an ever-more significant issue due to the withdrawal of weed-killing chemicals that also have the potential to contaminate the drinking water supply.

‘I thought rather than whinge about something I can do something about it,’ said Mr Reece-Sheerin, 69, who has dedicated much of his time in the summer months digging up weeds along the roads.

‘Not everything falls to the States. It’s my home island and I wanted to do something.’

The States stopped using weed-killing products containing glyphosate in 2020 and has tried more environmentally-friendly methods instead.

‘Methods include a weed-ripping machine, standard gardening equipment such as a hoe or strimmer, manual intervention, and organic treatments such as acetic acid,’ said a spokesman.

‘A non-glyphosate weed-killing product is used in some areas, but this is used very little compared to the other methods.’

Some vocal islanders online have felt not enough is being done to keep the island tidy.

But Mr Reece-Sheerin decided that rather than complaining online, he wanted to do something. He works for a few hours at a time, taking on various areas, often from suggestions from islanders, avoiding main roads due to danger.

‘If I can get one person to help, I would have done what I meant to do,’ he said.

‘If I can do it at my age, in a wheelchair, anyone can do it.’

Mr Reece-Sheerin has only been offered assistance once in clearing the weeds by a man and his young son. He hopes to inspire people to act and build self-pride and self-awareness.

‘This is my community – I have part ownership over it,’ he said.

Despite his efforts being very challenging in a wheelchair and having to keep himself safe, Mr Reece-Sheerin loves weeding and helping his community.

‘It’s great for mental health, I love it.’