Hartlepool Borough Council’s food waste collection fleet is to be given a fun new look thanks to the creativity of local schoolchildren.
Primary pupils from across the borough were invited to a competition to name the Council’s four dedicated food waste collection wagons.
The winning names are:
- Food Waste Fitz – James S, Throston Primary School
- Peels on Wheels – Vinnie J, Kingsley Primary School
- The Grub Gobbler – Sofia H, Eldon Grove Academy, and Ellie-Mae W, Grange Primary School
- The Munch Machine – Renée N, Fens Primary School
These will now be proudly displayed on the vehicles as they travel around Hartlepool collecting food waste from residents’ homes.
The winning pupils each received a £50 gift voucher, while their schools also received a £50 voucher. The vouchers were donated by Duranta Energy Ltd, the company which processes food waste collected by the Council, turning it into bio-gas and natural fertiliser.
Each winner also received a complimentary seven-day swim pass for Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub and a free bike service courtesy of Summerhill Country Park.
(Back, L-R) Crew Supervisor Darin Aird, Environmental Services Manager Paul Hurwood, Cllr Amanda Napper, Director of Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Kieran Bostock and Team Leader- Waste Services Joanne Taylor with the winning pupils.
Councillor Amanda Napper, Chair of the Council’s Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services Committee, said: “We are delighted with the response to the competition and the creativity shown by the young people who entered. The winning names are fun, memorable and perfectly capture the important role these vehicles play in helping Hartlepool recycle more and reduce waste.
“Our food waste collections are already making a real difference and it’s fantastic to see local children playing their part in raising awareness of the initiative.”
Sri Brahma, Group Operations Director of Duranta Energy Ltd, said: “I’d like to congratulate the pupils on their efforts and as a company we are delighted to have supported this competition. Together with households and local councils, Duranta Energy Limited transforms everyday food waste into renewable energy—protecting our environment, strengthening our communities, and powering a truly circular future."