A recycling service is to be expanded across the Hambleton district after successful trials.

Residents in Easingwold and Bedale will soon be able to recycle plastic bottles.

New bottle banks will be installed in addition to those already stationed at Northallerton and Thirsk.

Hambleton District Council's environmental health spokesman, Councillor David Blades, said the experiment in Northallerton and Thirsk proved there was a need.

He said: "Plastic takes up a lot of space in the dustbin but, by recycling just one bottle, we can save enough energy to power a 60 watt light bulb for six hours.

"These expansion plans are just part of our strategy to get more people recycling and reduce the amount of waste we send to landfill.

"Plastics are one of the most expensive products to recycle but the banks in Northallerton and Thirsk fill up very quickly, so we know they are well used."

Anyone who uses the banks should wash the bottles, remove the tops, and squash them flat before placing them in the bins.

Bottles are recycled into items including outdoor furniture and drainage tiles.