Residents in Helston and the surrounding area have been urged to avoid unnecessary trips to the tip this weekend - following long queues at many sites.

At some centres, waiting times have reached over an hour in recent days.

Drivers are being urged not to obstruct roads and to return at a later time if there are long queues. The number plate entry system is being enforced and people will be turned away during busy periods if they go on the wrong day.

Cornwall Council is urging people to store items safely at home and to use the kerbside rubbish and recycling collection services where possible.

Rob Nolan, Portfolio holder for Environment and Public Protection, added:

"We ask that if you can store unwanted items at home safely, you delay your trip to the HWRC for the time being.

"The staff are working incredibly hard so please be patient and respectful. We will not tolerate abuse to our workers."

You can find out more about the current restrictions in place at the sites on the Cornwall Council website.

Carry on the conversation on our Twitter and Facebook pages. [.B]