SCORES of new joint litter and recycling bins are being installed across the Taunton and Minehead areas.

The 130 bins have separate sections for litter, dog waste and plastic bottles and cans.

They are replacing existing bins across the district that are damaged, obsolete or no longer fit for purpose and make recycling on the go easier.

The first ones were in place this week, with the rollout due to be completed in the new year.

Somerset West and Taunton Council is running a school poster competition to coincide with its Recycling On-the-Go campaign,

It aims to inspire students aged 11 to 16 to raise awareness of the new bins and to promote their use.

Posters can be hand drawn or computer generated in either A4 or A3 size formats.

They must include a depiction of an outdoor triple compartment recycling bin; instructions encouraging the recycling of plastic bottles and cans using the correct apertures; and the phrase ‘Recycling on-the-go’.

They can also include information about the positive effects of recycling for the environment.

The competition is being supported by Somerset County Council’s support services for education unit and runs until Friday, December 17, ahead of judging by a panel of SWT officers and councillors.

The winning entrant will receive £500 for their school along with a printed and framed version of their poster, which will be used to promote Recycling On-the-Go.

Cllr Andrew Sully, executive member for environmental services, said: “Recycling preserves natural resources and saves energy. As a local authority, it was an obvious choice to maximise recycling opportunities through the introduction of the new bins.

“The poster competition provides a great way for youngsters to have fun while learning about the positive effects of recycling.

"With the abundance of young talent across the district, I hope it inspires many pupils to encourage public uptake of the new bins through the creativity of their poster designs."

Executive member for climate change Cllr Dixie Darch said: “The competition is a wonderful opportunity for school children to see how their artwork can make a difference and will highlight how recycling more is a positive action we can all take to help our planet.”

For a full competition brief, criteria information and poster details, e-mail J.Healy@somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk