VANDALS who torched three bottle banks at a local supermarket have come in for a roasting from local environmentalists.

The glass banks were situated on the car park at Morrisons superstore in Boundary Road. They have been completely destroyed and are currently being removed.

Says Councillor Terry Shields, Executive Member for Environmental Protection: "This is nothing but a complete and mindless act of sheer vandalism.

"These recycling centres are very well used and are a key component in helping to make our town greener, cleaner and more environmentally friendly as part of our constant bid to preserve the environment around us for all to enjoy".

Recycling services, including the paper banks, have now been closed due to health and safety issues and will remain closed until replacements and repairs are undertaken.

In the meantime, residents can take their recycling to nearby facilities at the Waste Reception Centre in Burtonhead Road, Asda and Safeway.

The matter has been reported to the police.Replacement bottle banks are on order.