A COUNCIL worker has knocked on more than 2,000 doors to encourage residents to recycle their waste.

Barbara Webster, a waste liaison officer, has also carried out 487 waste audits working with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

The work has been funded over two years by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (Wrap) and the Government. The campaign helped the east Cleveland council gain national recognition for its recycling programme after it was awarded Beacon status last week.

The council's cabinet member for environmental improvement, Councillor Bob Stanway, said: "Barbara is doing an invaluable job for everyone. We're delighted to see our recycling rates soar to 40 per cent, and I'm positive she is helping lots of residents play their part."

Ms Webster's work has involved a series of initiatives, including the Recycling Family of the Month, which rewards residents for separating their waste correctly.

She said: "I really enjoy the work, and there's no doubt that people are becoming more conscious of the need to recycle."