Monthly prizes are now up for grabs for residents in Kingston’s flats as part of the council’s new recycling scheme.

Kingston Recycling Rewards is targeted at reducing the £3 million a year it costs to process non-recyclable waste.

It follows the introduction of the new blue, green and brown bins for each block.

There are 15,000 purpose-built flats in the borough, and residents will have the scheme explained to them by teams of door-to-door recycling advisers.

Once signed up, participants will be able to report their weekly recycling and learn how to cut down on household waste.

They will then be eligible to win vouchers for popular retailers like Marks and Spencer, Itunes, B&Q and Odeon cinema vouchers.

The local charities supported by the scheme are Kingston Women’s Centre, EnhanceAble, Express CIC, Anstee Bridge and Love Kingston.

Councillor Phil Doyle, portfolio holder for resident services at Kingston Council said: “We’re excited to launch a new and innovative way to get residents recycling more. It’s fantastic that the scheme not only motivates residents with individual rewards, but also gives them the option to generate donations for some popular local causes.”

The scheme is being provided by Local Green Points.

Managing director Graham Simmons said: “It’s great to see Kingston Council adopting our community points approach to engage local people, as we know from experience it’s highly motivating for residents.

“By providing incentives for residents, Kingston Recycling Rewards will be able to really motivate residents who live in flats to recycle more of their day to day waste.”