British women have donated more than a ton of bras in the first year of Hertsmere Borough Council's bra recycling scheme.

Approximately 17,913 bras weighing just over one ton have been collected in special pink recycling bins, which can now be reused by women in poorer countries.

The Hertfordshire authority has also donated 1,000 pounds to the Breast Cancer Campaign charity, 1 pound for every kilo collected at eight sites across the area.

Councillor Jean Heywood, Environment Portfolio Holder, praised the women who participated in the initiative.

"This really is great news. It's brilliant that this scheme has been so well supported, thank you to everyone who has taken part," the Telegraph quoted her as saying.

"By recycling your bras not only will less waste be sent to landfill but women in poorer countries will benefit and you will be helping to fund research into breast cancer," she added. (ANI)