A COUNCIL is making changes to the way rubbish and recyclable refuse is collected to make it easier for residents.

Information packs are being delivered to homes in Weymouth and Portland to inform householders of the changes, which will come into force from October 20.

After this date green wheelie bins used for household waste will be collected on the same day as recycling boxes.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council says the move will make it easy for people to remember their collection days where currently most have to put their recycling and household waste out separately.

Residents will also be able to add envelopes, catalogues and telephone directories to their recycling.

In addition people will also be able to recycle batteries and mobile phones. These should be put in a special red bag which will be delivered to homes shortly.

Council spokesman for environment and sustainability Doug Hollings said: "Weymouth and Portland Borough Council has one of the best rates for recycling in the South West and we are always looking to improve things.

"As a council we pride ourselves on our active approach to caring for the environment which is why we have now taken measures to include items such as batteries and mobile phones in our recycling collection service."

He added: "The new collection days are intended to make residents' lives that little bit easier and encourage people to join us in the fight to be as green as we can. It is also important that individual residents are just as proactive.

"If everyone can make small changes to be more environmentally friendly then together we can make a big difference."

The council says residents can start to recycle batteries and mobiles as soon as they receive the new red bag by putting it in their green box on the next scheduled collection, but are urged not to do so before the bag has been delivered.

For more information about the new system contact the council on 01305 838000.