THE refuse collection schedule for the Christmas period has been announced by Swindon Council.

Collections throughout the borough will proceed as normal, other than on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, which fall on a Thurs-day and Friday.

On those days there will be no collection.

Affected householders are asked to place their refuse out for collection as normal the following weekday.

There will be a collection as normal on New Year's Day.

Council spokeswoman Sarah Deacon said: "The household waste recycling centre at Barnfield Road will be open between 8am and 4.30pm every day throughout the season, except on Christmas Day and New Year's Day."

She added that the paper recycling rounds would not operate on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year's Day.

Residents participating in the recycling box scheme are asked to store items until the next collection day.

Further information is available from the council on 01793 463000.