A NEW green scheme to recycle low-energy light bulbs has been launched in the Richmond area.

Hambleton and Richmondshire district councils have joined forces with volunteers from Transition Richmond to set up a trial bank to collect used bulbs.

And if the bank – in the Richmond Community Office – proves a success, others could be placed around the two districts.

Recycling officer Jenny Lowes said: “Low energy light bulbs save energy, carbon and money but it is essential they are recycled at the end of their life as they contain a small amount of mercury.

“Specially designed recycling containers have been made to stop them breaking and releasing the mercury.”

For more information on light bulb recycling visit recolight.CobraScheme.com Light bulbs can also be recycled at all household waste recycling centres throughout North Yorkshire in the fluorescent tube bins.

A full list of all Hambleton and Richmondshire’s recycling sites can be found on hambleton.gov.uk and richmondshire.gov.uk – follow the recycling links.