COMMUNITIES in Carmarthenshire will be encouraged to run their own recycling sites, after the arrival of £8 million in European funding.

The South West Wales Materials Efficiency project will also see some 20 new sites across the county for people to deposit their recycling, and a recycling community champion supporting other residents and increasing participation.

Welcoming the money, Carmarthenshire Council leader Meryl Gravell said: "We are delighted this funding has been secured.

"It will be used to improve recycling facilities within our communities and to fund a community champion who will be able to advise householders on their kerbside recycling scheme and address any issues they may have.

"It is vital we reduce the amount of waste we send to landfill and increase our recycling rates."