Thornton teen Elliot is bagging star billing

Entrepreneur Elliot Melrose took part in the litter pick on Sunday afternoon after putting flyers out for people to join him.

The teenager, from Stanah, wanted to help his community using money he has made from his thriving car wash enterprise.

He was joined by others (inset) during the litter pick at Kenyon Gardens park opposite his house.

The team gathered two bin bags of litter during the two hour pick.

His dad, Steve Melrose, said Elliot set up the car wash during half term in February and it has been a runaway success ever since.

The 50-year old IT manager said: “He is quite famous locally now for washing cars.

“He only did it initially during the half term as something to do but it has been unbelievable how popular it has become.”

Elliot attends Great Arley school in Thornton and Steve says his son finds it hard to make friends –but the car wash helps his confidence.

He added: “Not only is he learning about finances and controlling his money it is helping with his confidence which he has suffered with previously. We have had some people complaining saying he should have a licence and that sort of thing which has upset Elliot, but Wyre Council has been very supportive of him and his ideas.”

Steve also says Elliot has been receiving help and advice from local business owners and free cleaning items from companies.

He said: “We had one car wash company send four, five litre tubs of car shampoo and a range of brushes.

“When we looked them up online they came to nearly £150 so the support has been brilliant.”

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