MANY Darlington residents are apathetic towards recycling, according to a report.

A working group was set up by the borough council to investigate parts of town where its kerbside recycling scheme did not have high participation levels.

Several councillors took part in door-knocking exercises, to ask homeowners for their views.

The streets surveyed were Easson Road, Farrer Street, Hammond Drive, Waverley Terrace and Bourne Avenue.

Many respondents said they had no interest in recycling or were not aware of the reasons for it.

The group concluded that although there was good knowledge of the scheme, there was only a 50 per cent participation rate.

Its report said: "There seems to be a general ignorance as to why we should recycle and the consequences of not recycling.

"The group felt that there is a lot of apathy across the town to the kerbside recycling scheme and that the momentum needs maintaining. It may be a good time to introduce a new marketing campaign."

A council scrutiny committee meets tomorrow, when it will consider undertaking a publicity drive and other measures to enhance the service.