Bideford boy sees winning design brought to life on new Torridge refuse truck

An 8-year-old from Bideford has seen his winning artwork displayed on one of Torridge District Council’s new refuse vehicles.

George Hudson won a competition to design a banner for the council’s latest refuse lorry. His design was adapted for full-scale application with the help of Graphic Designer Jon Lockett to ensure it could be displayed effectively on the vehicle.

George was invited to the council’s Operational Services Centre to see the finished vehicle. During the visit, he was given a behind-the-scenes tour, including the workshop and the area where lorries are cleaned after collection rounds. 

He was also presented with a gift to mark his achievement.

George Hudson, winner of the competition, said: “It was very exciting to see my design on the side of the truck – I didn’t realise it would be so big and on both sides. I’m very happy with it. I really enjoyed having a look around the centre and learning about where my lorry will go. Getting to sit in the lorry was definitely the best bit.”

Councillor Chris Leather, Lead Member for Waste and Recycling at Torridge District Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see young people engaging so positively with recycling, and George’s artwork will help spread that message across our community. I’d like to thank George for his creativity, as well as our dedicated crews, whose hard work continues to support a cleaner, greener Torridge. Keep an eye out for George’s design when our teams are out collecting your waste!”

The vehicle is now operating on collection rounds across the district, and residents are encouraged to look out for George’s design as it travels through towns and villages.