A FREE collection of garden pesticides from properties in Newton Abbot gets underway next month.

Dubbed the ‘Big Bradley Pesticide Collection’, the initiative is offering a free doorstep collection of unwanted pesticide containers from properties in the Bradley area of the town.

The initiative, which is thought to be the first of its kind in the UK, takes place between October 21 and 25.

Herbicides, insecticides, slug pellets or other chemical pest control products are eligible for collection.

These products can pose a risk to human health, pets and the wider environment, and should not be left on a shelf or put in a black bin.

But they can be disposed of safely as a part of the Big Bradley Pesticide Collection.

The collection is the latest stage of community group Green Futures’ ‘Pesticide-Free Bradley’ initiative.

The group began the initiative to encourage every householder, business and public sector organisation across the ward to go ‘pesticide-free’.

A co-ordinator for the group said: ‘This is a community-based approach to making our environment healthier and more sustainable over the longer term for future generations.

‘We are very grateful to the Devon Environment Foundation, the town, district and county councils and Suez Recycling and Recovery for their support.’

Cllr Richard Buscombe, representative for Bradley Ward, said: ‘We voted for Newton Abbot Town Council to go pesticide-free back in November 2023 and now we want to support local residents to do the same.

‘It’s going to mean a different approach to managing the garden, but if we can boost pollinator levels and reduce health risks to ourselves and our pets, this has got to be a good thing.’

Executive member for recycling, household waste and environmental health, Cllr Peter Williams, said: ‘We recognise the importance of helping local residents to reduce the environmental and health risks of having pesticide containers in their household.

‘If you live in the Highweek, Bradley Valley or Hele Park areas of Newton Abbot check your shed or garage for any old pesticide containers and book your free council collection.’