recycling residents have been urged to shred letters, which contain personal details in a bid to hamper bin raiders.

Wychavon District Council has urged residents not to bin bills, letters or bank statements, which could be used by criminals to commit fraud.

Client services manager, Sharon Casswell said: "While not a big problem in Wychavon, we are issuing this warning in line with national advice.

"Bin raiders literally scour through people's bins and recycling boxes to get personal details, so that they can apply for credit cards or loans using false names. Mini shredders are now available for just a few pounds and could save you thousands in the long run."

For more information e-mail client.services@wychavon.gov.uk or call 01386 565018.