A student has designed artwork that is being displayed on the side of five Ashfield District Council bin lorries.

George Quincey, who is in Year 9 at Quarrydale Academy, Sutton, was surprised with a visit from one of the bin lorries, featuring his new artwork, at school.

The lorry was joined (above) by Stop Loan Sharks’ mascot Sid the Shark; Coun Samantha Deakin, executive lead member for Parks and Environmental Services, and representatives from Roadvert.

Working with Roadvert and Stop Loan Sharks, which funded the project from the proceeds of crime taken from convicted illegal money lenders, the council tasked Quarrydale pupils with creating a drawing to advertise the dangers of loan sharks and borrowing from an illegal lender.

Coun Deakin said: “We were so pleased to partner with Stop Loan Sharks and Roadvert for this competition.

“The winning drawing by George is amazing and clearly shows the message we are hoping to portray — don’t take the bait!

“The cost-of-living crisis has intensified people’s situations, including forcing people to go to unscrupulous, and illegal, money lenders. We hope these new bin lorry covers will remind people that there is help available if they do find themselves in trouble.”

Craig Fuller, of Roadvert, said: “Working with Ashfield District Council on this initiative and being able to deliver an impactful message to residents daily has been a privilege. The standard of artwork made the final decision very tricky, congratulations to George Quincey.”

Tony Quigley, head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, added: “We were hugely impressed with George’s design.

“It is so important that people know that help and support is available if they have borrowed from an illegal lender.

These criminals may pose as your friend, but quickly turn nasty with escalating debts, coercive control, and threats.

“If you or anyone you know has been affected by an illegal lender, please call us on 0300 555 2222 or go to www.stoploansharks.co.uk for more information.”