Worcester's new wheelie bin refuse collection service is being hailed as a success after its first week as the amount of waste sent for recycling more than doubled.

Despite initial teething problems and some resistance from residents to the new scheme, recyclable material increased by 110 per cent from the two city rounds using the bins.

A delighted Mike Harrison, Head of Worcester City Council environmental services, said: "On a typical week using the recycling bags, our crews on these rounds would have collected 58 tons of recyclables. In the first week of the wheeled bins, this figure has rocketed to 122 tons - a massive 110 per cent increase.

"We were confident that the new service would boost recycling levels - one of the main reasons why it is being introduced to the city - but the amount collected has surpassed even our prediction of 96 tons."

Council leader Stephen Inman said the early recycling figures prove the principle behind the wheelie bin scheme is sound and he congratulated city residents for their response.

"It's a challenge for all of us to increase the amount we recycle and it's fantastic that residents have responded so spectacularly. The crews collecting the bins have also done a sterling job to ensure a smooth, safe operation."

He added that Worcester was well on its way to reaching the national target for recycling of 24 per cent of all household waste, which should be achieved when the scheme is operating throug-hout the city. Worcester will incur a financial penalty if it does not meet that target.

Coun Derek Prodger, refuse collection cabinet member, said: "The benefits of recycling are well-known but it is incredible for the wheelie bins to have such an immediate affect. Apparently, the quality of the recycled material is also very good, which means that residents need to be congratulated twice over."

Anyone with queries or comments about he new wheelie bin service can ring the helpline on 01905 722514 or 722448 or e-mail wheeledbins@cityofworcester.gov.uk