MCC Cabinet Member for waste has responded to critics of the new recycling scheme in the county this week, saying that recycling has increased since its introduction.

Monmouthshire County Councillor Eric Saxon, said:

"Residents have proved great supporters by increasing the amounts of recycling through the new scheme and we would like to say a very big thank you for that support – well done."

The new red and purple bag recycling scheme has already increased recycling by over 30%, an extra 30 tonnes of recycled materials that won't go to landfill this week.

In the first week, the new scheme has collected a total of 131 tonnes of recyclables with only part of the county yet covered.The new red and purple bag recycling scheme will be extended to the remaining box collection areas from the week beginning 25th January 2010.