A SCHEME designed to stop the New Forest turning into a graveyard for abandoned cars and motorcycles has been hailed a success.

New Forest District Council starting collecting old bangers from residents' homes and scrapping them free of charge last November as part of a vehicle amnesty.

And in just under a year the number of wrecked cars aban-doned in the popular tourist area has fallen dramatically.

Last year 492 cars were left to rot in the New Forest, but since the amnesty was unveiled the number has dropped to 197 - and a staggering 672 have been removed for free.

But the district council's environmental chiefs have warned that they may have to start charging when the European Union introduces tougher legislation on car disposal in November.

New Forest District Council's portfolio holder for environment Cllr Michael Thierry said: "Should anybody be thinking of scrapping their vehicle it would be better to do it before November in case the price of scrap is affected and we have to make a charge."

The district council organises the collection of cars through its contractors who charge nothing for the removal, but recoup their costs at the recycling plants.

The amnesty follows in the footsteps of a successful pilot scheme in Totton.

Anyone who wishes to get rid of their car or van should call 01590 646123 and ask for an application form, or drop into their local council offices.

First published: Oct 12