A MASSIVE leap in the rate of recycling in the Basingstoke borough has taken place following the launch of a new scheme.

In only the first month of the new green bin system, the amount of recyclables collected in the borough has risen by a colossal 157 per cent.

During October, the council collected 640 tonnes of recyclable materials compared with 253 tonnes in the same period last year.

Cllr George Hood, Cabinet member for community well-being, told The Gazette: "Although there have been some problems with the implementation of the new recycling scheme, I would like to congratulate the residents of Basingstoke and Deane for their recycling achievements so far.

"After introducing the new green bins we have seen the amount of recycled waste increase to outstanding levels.

"We are currently achieving 14 per cent recycling from our kerbside scheme. When this is combined with bottle and can bank facilties, this figure increases to more than 16 per cent.

"With the help of local people, we are getting closer to our target of 20 per cent by the end of 2002. This is the target that has been set by the Government."

However, there are still some householders who are having problems getting their green bins.

Mrs Elisabeth Flegg, of Portsmouth Way, South Ham, rang the hotline for a bin after reading the joint advert by the council and its refuse contractor Onyx which stated they would deliver a bin within three working days.

"I was told they would deliver one within five days," said Mrs Flegg. "They are already sliding back on what they have promised."

A council spokesman insisted: "It is three days. Mrs Flegg should not have been told five days - we will get her one within three days.

"We believe there to be only a small number of green bins still to be delivered but would urge anyone who has not yet received a bin to call 01256 359719."