GARDEN waste collections across Somerset are restarting - after a six week break.

Somerset Waste Partnership (SWP) made the decision to suspend the collections so staff could be redeployed to support rubbish and recycling crews.

READ MORE: SWP suspends garden waste collections in Somerset for six weeks

Now, SWP has announced the collections will definitely restart on Monday (September 13) - but have warned customers not to overfill their bins.

"Eight weeks have been automatically added to your subscription, taking those of most customers through to mid-July next year," said a spokesperson for SWP.

"Until your first new collection, please continue to minimise garden waste.

"Consider mowing and pruning less, and mulching grass cuttings to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

"The six-week suspension allowed redeployed staff to support vital recycling and rubbish pick-ups.

"Apologies for the disruption and thank you for your help and patience."

SWP are encouraging Somerset residents to not overfill their garden waste bins - as this is unsafe for staff, passers-by and the truck.

If the bin is overfilled, it will not be collected.

"If too heavy in the judgement of the crew and as set out in the terms and conditions you agreed, you must reduce the weight to 40kgs or less and ensure the lid is closed," added the spokesperson.

"If you have repeatedly compacting contents or repeatedly added contents and let it settle, it may be too heavy. If crews consider this to be a risk, the bin will not be collected.

"Customers will need to reduce the weight and it will be emptied on your next scheduled collection."

Extra garden waste capacity will continue at Somerset's 16 recycling sites until after collections restart. 

Mickey Green, SWP managing director, said: “This has been a really difficult time and we again thank the public for their patience and crews for their hard work.

“Authorities up and down the country have been affected, and while it is still challenging here in Somerset, things are getting back on track.”

To check your collection days or to find out more visit somersetwaste.gov.uk.