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Firefighters respond after a fire in a bin lorry's load forces waste to be tipped at the depot.
Batteries don't belong in bins
A recent fire in one of our waste collection vehicles is a reminder of why batteries don't belong in bins.
We believe the fire was caused by a vape containing a battery. Thankfully, the crew spotted it quickly and nobody was hurt.
Batteries can be found inside all sorts of everyday items, including vapes, toys, decorations and flashing accessories that are popular around Halloween. If they're thrown away in household waste, they can become damaged and start fires during collection.
Please recycle batteries, vapes and other electrical items instead. Batteries can be taken to a re3 recycling centre or you can find your nearest collection point.
If your vape has reached the end of its life, don't put it in your rubbish or recycling bin.
Take it to a re3 recycling centre or return it to a retailer that sells vapes, which must offer a take-back service for used vapes and vape parts, including batteries, pods and coils.
 However you pumpkin this Halloween...
From pumpkin patches to the Pumpkin Fair at Dinton Pastures, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Halloween across the borough this October.
Making the most of your pumpkin? Here are a couple of tips:
- If you're carving a pumpkin, don't throw away the inside. Pumpkin flesh can be used in soups, curries and cakes, while the seeds can be roasted for a snack.
- Decorated your pumpkin? Remove any decorations before putting it in your food waste caddy.
When Halloween is over, any leftovers can go in your food waste caddy where they go on to be made into energy and fertiliser.
Want to see what happens on that journey? Follow a banana skin from kitchen caddy to anaerobic digester.
 How could climate change affect everyday life?
A further screening of the People's Emergency Briefing is taking place at All Saints Church, Wokingham, on Saturday 18 October.
The film brings together leading UK scientists and experts to explore topics including extreme weather, food security, health and the cost of living, and what they could mean for everyday life in the UK.
After the screening, there will be an open discussion about what these issues mean for local communities and what action can be taken locally.
The event runs from 11.15am to 1pm, with refreshments available from 10.45am. Attendance is free, but advance booking is recommended.
Help us celebrate our environmental champions
We’ve recently opened nominations for the Mayor’s Honour Awards 2027 and are looking for individuals and groups that have gone above and beyond.
This includes those who have taken steps to improve and care for their local area.
Take Bob Collis from the Earley Environmental Group for example. Last year Bob was awarded for his remarkable leadership in protecting and enhancing local green spaces. His advocacy for Swallows Meadow has been instrumental in encouraging partnership between the University of Reading and residents.
Other award winners have included a couple who were determined to keep their community tidy through regular litter picking and a community group who created and maintain local orchards.
Nominations close on 31 December. The winners will be chosen by Wokingham Borough Mayor, Cllr Rob Comber, and honoured at a ceremony in spring 2027.
 Planning a trip to Longshot Lane?
Essential maintenance works are taking place at Longshot Lane Recycling Centre in Bracknell until Tuesday 6 October.
Wood, garden waste, cardboard, plasterboard, soil and hardcore cannot currently be accepted at the site.
If you need to dispose of these materials, please use the re3 Recycling Centre in Reading or wait until normal services resume on Wednesday 7 October.
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