The introduction of new seagull-proof sacks across part of the Smithick ward in Falmouth has already proved a great success, with a dramatic reduction seen in the amount of rubbish left strewn across roads and pavements on collection day.

Councillors Candy Atherton and Diana Merrett joined forces to ensure that every household in their ward will receive one of the sacks, which can hold around four regular bin bags and keep them safe from scavenging seagulls and vermin.

In the first week of the initiative, around 45 per cent of the homes in the ward received their sacks, meaning about 750 houses now have them. They were delivered by representatives of Falmouth Town Council and Cory Environmental.

The first sacks went to the areas around Marlborough Road and Wodehouse Terrace with Clifton Terrace/Crescent set to be the next homes to receive theirs.

Ms Atherton is delighted at the effect the sacks have already had. “After only ten days, there was a 90 per cent improvement in the amount of litter around the area,” she said. “This is absolutely fantastic and more than any of us had dared hope for.

“There were some houses who did not use them, whether that was because they were missed by mistake or they don’t know how to use them, we need to find out. We will go around and see how we can help.

“If you have not had your sack delivered yet, you will get one in the new year. They have run out and are producing new ones as we speak.”