A HANDS-ON recycling workshop for children has been established by the Co-op at its Waste Works education centre.

The free two-hour workshop, which is aimed at primary school children, is entitled 'Closing the Loop'.

It aims to enhance youngsters' knowledge of recycling and recyclable products.

Children from Holy Family RC Primary in Wigan were the first to attend the workshop at the office waste-recycling centre on Manchester's Dantzic Street last week.

The facility converts waste paper collected from the Co-op's offices into the toilet and kitchen tissue sold in its stores.

Michelle Lockwood, education centre manager at Waste Works, said: "Educating young people about recycling is important as they take the message home, which helps get their parents recycling.

"We want to ensure that recycling and environmental awareness become second nature to the younger generation."

For more information log onto www.co-operative.coop/wasteworks .