HOUSEHOLDERS are urged to put any used batteries in their recycling green boxes to be collected by Stroud District Council from January 24.

"At this time of year, many batteries will be purchased for all those toys and household items," said Cllr Nigel Cooper, cabinet member for the environment, rural affairs and licensing.

"Please remember not to bin them but save them for your green box. People in the Stroud District already recycle more than anyone else in the South West, so we know this will be well received. It is an important addition to our service, as it will stop the pollution caused by tipping batteries into a landfill."

For technical reasons only ordinary non-rechargeable dry-cell batteries can be accepted. Hearing aid/watch-type batteries are not acceptable.