SEAGULL proof sacks are being given to traders by the council in a bid to keep Hereford's streets clean.

Residents have complained recently about rubbish bags being left in High Town after trading has finished and their contents being scattered across the street by seagulls.

Chris Clarke was one of those left 'shocked' at the mess left behind last Saturday after the birds had torn into the left rubbish bags.

In response a Herefordshire council spokesman said that a trial in three areas across the city is currently taking place where the use of 'thick plastic, reusable seagull proof sacks' had seen a marked improvement in reducing litter created by gulls.

The spokesman said: "We and our contractors are working with local businesses to ensure those who use our trade waste collection service are putting their rubbish out for collection at the right time and in the right place to be collected.

"We are planning to extend the trial area across litter hot spots. We would like to remind everyone, both residents and businesses, to put out their rubbish for collection in a place and at a time agreed with whoever collects it."

For domestic properties the council has a self-search facility on their website by searching in your postcode and house number the next collection day will be shown.

This is available at: www.herefordshire.gov.uk/bincollection

For businesses using the council’s service please contact the council on 01432 260051.