THE council department responsible for emptying Wyre Forest's bins has earned Government recognition for the quality of its service.

The refuse section of the district council has secured the Cabinet Office's prestigious Charter Mark.

It recognises excellence in the public sector. Government figures released earlier this year showed Wyre Forest's refuse service was third best nationally.

Around 40 people including support staff, work in the section which is the first within the district council to clinch the Charter Mark.

Commercial services manager Keith Burgess said: "We applied for it last year and we just missed the mark.

"We were then put on a fast track application. This time round, we have reached the required standard and we're absolutely delighted."

Councillor Ken Stokes, the council's portfolio holder for community life, said: "We are very proud of our refuse staff, who really do offer an excellent service.

"It is pleasing to see that their hard work, dedication and commitment is being rightfully rewarded.

"We hope to use their experience of Charter Mark to submit applications for other service areas in the future."