Ever wondered what happens after the recycling truck leaves your street? Now's your chance to find out. Somerset Council and SUEZ recycling and recovery UK are opening the doors to Evercreech Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) for public tours this September.

Normally closed to the public, the facility will be hosting free tours on Saturday, 14 September, running every hour from 10am to 2pm. With only 20 spots available per tour, it's free, but you'll need to book ahead to avoid missing out.

The facility processes around 34,000 tonnes of recycling a year – the equivalent of 2,000 double-decker buses. Visitors will see how the trucks empty their loads and how the sorting machines separate plastics from tins and cans, all part of the blue bag collection system.

Upgraded in 2020 as part of the Recycle More programme, the site now uses new technology to efficiently sort materials ready to be turned into new products. In 2022-23, nearly 97% of Somerset's recycling remained in the UK.

Tours will be led by SUEZ staff, who will explain the recycling process and answer any questions. Visitors will also learn about the dangers of incorrectly disposing of items like vapes, batteries, and gas canisters, which pose serious fire risks.

Fred Stinchcombe, regional production manager for SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, said: "We're really excited to open our doors for the second time in Somerset and give the public behind the scenes access to our Evercreech recycling facility. They'll learn exactly what happens after their recycling is collected on bin day.

"We hosted just under 90 residents last year throughout the day and it was a great success. Working in this industry we're often asked interesting questions by residents, so we look forward to the opportunity to showcase our role in reducing waste and how we get the recycling prepared to be turned into new packaging and products. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to Evercreech in September."

Cllr Dixie Darch, executive lead member for climate and environment, said: "Somerset's great recycling record is down to our residents and their efforts to sort their recycling for collection. These tours will bring to life what happens to our recycling. Knowing that the right thing is being done with the materials is a key motivator for getting people recycling."

Evercreech Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) is located at Evercreech Junction Industrial Estate, near Shepton Mallet. For more information and to book a tour, visit the Heritage Open Day website.