A former lorry driver has dedicated the past decade to transforming Gloucester's neglected streets, funding the work himself from a modest pension. Alan Platt, known locally as "Big Al," embarked on his mission following a heart attack at the age of 59. Medical advice to shed weight led him outdoors with a litter picker in hand. What began as a health measure though has now evolved into a comprehensive campaign against urban decay. The retired haulier now spends his days tackling overgrown footpaths, rusted street furniture, and litter-strewn public spaces across the city. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say "I'll deep-clean an area where I think the people that live and work there, or are coming to visit, should not have to see such a s*** tip," he told The Times. Mr Platt, who grew up in a Royal Air Force family and served four years in the RAF himself, has taken on what he views as years of municipal neglect. He has painted hundreds of bollards, planters, benches and gates throughout the city, including restoring the entrance to the 12th-century St Nicholas Church on Westgate Street. The retired driver has also planted hundreds of spring bulbs and trees, all from his own funds. He believes unkempt surroundings breed poor behaviour among residents. "It makes them slovenly, it makes them care less and they can get away with chucking stuff down," Mr Platt explained. "Hopefully now, by doing this, we encourage people, but also they think twice about doing it and then they get a bit of pride in themselves." Mr Platt is not alone in his endeavours. Neville Southgate, a 77-year-old former NHS nurse, has been leading efforts to restore Alney Island, an 80-hectare council-owned wetland reserve near the River Severn. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS Monkey caught near prison with 'crack cocaine' during drug bust Highland chippy awarded for serving free fish suppers to all-weather litter pickers Woman wins payout from hospital after she complained her anxiety affected her ability to be concise The pair have forged an unlikely friendship through their shared commitment. "We are very unlike each other and come from different backgrounds and we have both been surprised that we became friends, but this is our common interest," Mr Southgate said. Together, they have planted 400 spring bulbs and installed bird feeders after clearing bramble thickets that had rendered pavements and cycle paths nearly impassable. The work carries risks, however. Mr Southgate suffered a broken nose when attacked by a man attempting to steal his tools while litter picking in Gloucester city park. Police took seven weeks to obtain his statement, and no prosecution followed. But Mr Platt's contributions have now received public recognition. His face has been projected onto a wall near Gloucester's new bus station as part of a celebration of local volunteers. "It's the size of a house and I knew nothing about it," he said. "I only found out the other day. I'm quite shocked. I think it's great. They'll be remembering Big Al." The 69-year-old funds his efforts from a £12,000 annual pension, often purchasing paint himself when others prove unwilling. A single tin costs £22. "I waited and waited and waited for them to pay me to get some tins of paint but in the end I just did it," he said of work near Gloucester cricket club. "I could not believe people's attitudes in these clubs, so tight-fisted." Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter