Recycling drama takes to stage

Around 550 youngsters were taken to the civic centre in Beecroft Road for the sessions which included an interactive DVD and quiz.

The performances were staged by Quantum Theatre Company and were about an eco-warrior from outer space who helped to save the earth.

The group also visited the district in October to perform at Rugeley Leisure Centre, as part of Local Democracy Week.

This week's performances were made possible thanks to Staffordshire County councillors' Local Member Initiative funding. At the end of each session schools were presented with certificates, a bag of compost, a tree, seeds and a goodie bag. Nine schools attended on Wednesday and Thursday.

Cannock Chase District Council's head of environmental services Kevin Lawlor said: "Due to the popularity of last November's performances, we decided to invite the Quantum Theatre back so that more children could attend.

"They have enabled local schoolchildren to learn about the importance of recycling in a way they can relate to and enjoy." Schools which took place were Bridgtown Primary, John Bamford, Redhill Primary, Moorhill Primary, Redbrook Hayes, Hednesford Valley High, Churchfield Primary, Heath Hayes Primary and St Luke's Primary schools.

A fortnightly collection was introduced across Cannock Chase in 2005 but sparked fears of overflowing bins and a flurry of complaints about maggots in last summer's hot weather.

But, despite concerns, the kerbside recycling scheme has helped drag the district from being among the worst in the country in terms of the amount of waste recycled to nearer the top of the chart.

Close to 40 per cent of waste is now recycled in the district.