North Somerset Council has claimed a first with an innovative new way to collect recycling and waste.

A four-week trial with a sample of households will use larger bins with four compartments, three wheels and a lid, collected by a specialist recycling vehicle.

The council said the system, which has been used in Scandinavia for around 20 years, will mean fewer collections, reducing pollution, congestion on the roads and cost.

Director of place, Lucy Shomali, said: ‘It's exciting to see North Somerset trialing this innovative technology - a first in the UK.

‘Despite our existing excellent track record for recycling, we're striving to improve even further by trailblazing more efficient and effective collection methods.

‘This project fits squarely with our vision to be a leading authority in minimising waste and tackling the climate emergency.'