BIN collection in the Ribble Valley has been praised by the Government.

Eric Pickles, Communities Secretary, said councils should follow Ribble Valley's lead and collect refuse weekly.

He said refuse collection was the most visible service residents received for their council tax.

Mr Pickles added: “Householders deserve a comprehensive weekly refuse collection service in return for their taxes and a number of local authorities are showing that innovative approaches can deliver quality services.”

Borough council leader Stuart Hirst said: “We are one of the few local authorities in the UK to maintain a weekly refuse collection service, as well as developing a robust recycling scheme.

“Our residents tell us they value and appreciate weekly collections of non-recyclable waste and we are delighted that the Government has recognised our achievements.”