A kerbside recycling scheme will be launched in Darlington next week.

The long-awaited system, which aims to encourage residents to recycle more domestic waste, is to be rolled out across the borough in three phases.

Green recycling boxes have already been delivered to households in several areas of Darlington, as well as the outlying communities of Piercebridge, Merrybent and High and Low Coniscliffe.

People who have received the 55-litre boxes are asked to put them out for collection from the start of September.

Residents living in areas planned for the second and third phases will receive their boxes in early September and early October respectively.

Anyone who will be away at these times can contact Darlington Borough Council on (01325) 388777 to make alternative arrangements.

Information leaflets will also be sent out, stating collection dates.

The council has asked people to put boxes out on the morning of collection days, with their house numbers clearly marked on the side.