A NEW recycling scheme introduced in Thirsk and Sowerby has been criticised by residents.

A meeting of Sowerby Parish Council heard that elderly people and people living in terraced properties were having difficulties with the wheeled bins.

Councillor Mark Robson is collating the comments and will pass them on to Hambleton District Council.

Councillor David Murkett said: "In defence of Hambleton, we have to recycle a certain amount to reach government targets and treble recycling in two years or face penalties which will cost the council taxpayers.

"That could be up to £160,000 in the first year and it rises if we fail to hit the targets.

"It is in all our interests to ensure we recycle everything which can be recycled."

Coun Murkett said refuse collectors had complained that some people were deliberately messing up the system, and he added: "I do think ordinary domestic waste should be collected weekly."