Residents who do not use a seagull-proof sack or rubbish bin to contain their waste on collection day could unwittingly be contributing to Cornwall’s litter problem, a council trial in Camborne has suggested.

As part of the trial the council gave reusable seagull-proof sacks to a number of homes on several streets in Camborne. The tough, durable woven plastic sacks hold up to three black bin bags and act as a deterrent to wildlife scavenging for food. While this was a small sample, the short term findings of the trial indicated a small overall drop in litter levels in the surrounding areas.

Local councillor Paul White, who has campaigned for the introduction of the scheme, said: "I was delighted Cornwall Council chose Rosemellin, North Roskear Road and other areas in Camborne to pilot the scheme. I have campaigned tirelessly to keep Camborne’s roads and streets as tidy as possible.

"Lots of people have told me that the seagull proof sacks have definitely improved the areas. The sacks are easy to store and when used prevent black bin bags being torn apart which creates litter and mess. In future I hope more people will use them - they do make a difference." ”

Local resident Mrs Cora Seddon said: "We have recently been issued with a seagull proof bag, as part of a pilot scheme, to hopefully help eliminate the problem in our community. We are in support of the scheme and hopefully it will be extended to the whole of the area. Where plastic bags have to be left outside homes on pavements and are vulnerable not only to seagulls but other scavengers these bags are especially helpful."

Seagull-proof sacks, which cost £3.50 per bag, can be bought from the Council’s Information Service (previously known as One Stop Shop) at the council offices on Dolcoath Road in Camborne. They are also available from the Camborne Town Council Office.