BIN collections will return to normal in all areas of Blackburn and Darwen from Monday, council bosses revealed today.

Following the Government's decision to ease foot and mouth restrictions in the borough, bin men will be allowed back on to rural roads.

Since the outbreak started before spring, many farms and outlying homes have had to bring their bags or bins to the nearest adopted road in order to reduce the risk of refuse trucks spreading the disease.

The Blackburn with Darwen area has now been downgraded from 'High Risk' to 'At Risk' by DEFRA, the Department of Food and Rural affairs.

Explanatory leaflets are already being delivered to households.