RYEDALE residents are the biggest eco-warriors in Yorkshire and Humberside - recycling more than half of all their household waste.

New figures have revealed that Ryedale District Council reached an estimated recycling rate of more than 50 per cent last financial year - an increase of almost ten per cent from 2005-6.

Council chiefs hailed Ryedale residents for their efforts, which have catapulted the authority to a top-five placing in a national table of most improved authorities for recycling and composting.

Janet Waggott, chief executive of the council, said: "This fantastic news is down to a real partnership effort between the council and residents and I'm delighted that it looks set to be rewarded."

Mother-of-two Kate Gale, of Thornton-le-Dale, is only one resident in Ryedale who has been persuaded to change her ways over the last year.

She said: "At first the thought of the hassle of recycling was something I wasn't looking forward to, even though I've always been very aware of the need for it.

"But council officers explained the whole process well and were able to provide a local, easy and comprehensive recycling scheme that works for me and the environment."

Phil Long, commercial services manager for the council, said they had been working hard to make sure the council had the full backing of residents.

He said: "We have worked closely with local people to ensure that the recycling and waste management service provided by the district council is one that they both understand and support.

"These latest figures highlight the success of these efforts and the fact that we are well on track to continue to be one of the leading authorities in the country for recycling."

A recent survey conducted by the council showed 72 per cent of all Ryedale residents questioned were satisfied with their recycling service.