Lewisham Council is celebrating after scooping a prestigious National Recycling Award for outstanding work keeping residents informed about recycling and the environment.
Lewisham came first in the 'Best Information and Communication Strategy Campaign' category when the winners were announced at a ceremony in the Bournemouth International Centre on Wednesday evening.
Councillor Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Customers Services, said: 'A massive thanks to everyone in Lewisham for who was involved.
'This is a great achievement and just shows how hard everyone has worked to get the message of recycling across to Lewisham residents.
'I want to encourage residents to do their part by making sure they recycle all their paper, cardboard, glass, tin and plastic waste.
'For those who do not already have a recycling bin they can contact the Recycling Team contact CallPoint on 020 8314 7171 to order one.'
Lewisham have also been short-listed for the Clean Britain Awards for being the most spotless borough in England.
The campaigns that really impressed the judges included:
The Love Lewisham Recycle Now campaign – promotional materials were produced and distributed to residents, schools, businesses, faith groups and community groups. Information also went out to all householders via a supplement in the Lewisham Life magazine.
Recycling Champions scheme – rewarded residents for encouraging their neighbours to recycle.
New Cross Cow Bins – ordinary recycling bins were turned into look-a-like cows to make them more noticeable and encourage children to recycle. Recycling increased by 60% after the bins were turned into cows.