RESIDENTS across Colchester must separate their glass and cans for recycling, or risk them not being collected.

From June 1 the materials must be separated in order to assist crews and ensure they don't have to sift through items at the kerbside as well as to stop contamination of recycling.

Crews will put a reminder sticker on boxes over the next few weeks, before the new rule is implemented.

Anyone who doesn't have a second box, can either use a different container not made of cardboard they already have of a similar size, or fill out a form online to request one.

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Martin Goss, councillor responsible for waste, environment and transport, said “I’d urge residents to start thinking ahead now.

"Bear in mind that if your next cans and glass recycling collection date falls after June 1, you should start putting recyclable glass and cans in separate recycling boxes.

"To make this small change easier for everyone, you can use your own box, if it is a similar size and not made of cardboard, or you can order a second box via the councils website.”

There is no change for flats with communal recycling facilities.

Visit colchester.gov.uk/recycling.