DON'T dump your old fridges. We'll take them away for free!

That's the warming message from council chiefs, who are quashing rumours that they will no longer accept them.

New EU rules mean that old fridges and freezers must have their CFC gases removed. Many are worried that the cost of doing this will lead to fridges being tipped into the countryside.

Councillor Julie Higson, executive member for the environment, said: "There is no truth in the rumour that we are no longer accepting fridges or freezers at civic amenity sites or through our bulky waste collection service.

"Despite the cost involved we believe that we must continue to provide this service. The alternative, which is almost certain to be a rise in illegal tipping, is just not acceptable."

Fridges can be disposed of at three civic amenity sites at Fernhill in Bury, Clifton Road in Prestwich and Cemetery Road, Radcliffe which are open seven days a week from 8am-6pm.

Alternatively, householders can phone 253 5353 and the council will come round and take up to six bulky items away, again free of charge.

Coun Higson said: "This collection service was only introduced last year in a bid to cut fly tipping. It has been an immediate hit and usage is running extremely high with February completely booked."

She added: "The legislation is designed to protect the environment, but that is going to be counterproductive if people just start to dump their old appliances haphazardly.

"That is why we are making it clear that fridges and freezers are accepted by the council and reiterate that there is no charge."