The Christmas cards are now down and it’s time to think of recycling.

There’s more to it than it than meets the eye.

The problem is that many Christmas cards are made of more than just paper.

Simple cards without glitter or foil can be put with other paper and cardboard but those with anything metallic will be turned away.

Local authorities say they do not want to discourage recycling but are giving strict instructions on how it should be done.

South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Cllr Keith Baldry, said: “We encourage our residents to recycle all cards that are free from glitter or any shiny or foil decorations. Any cards that are not plain unfortunately cannot be recycled. Foil or shiny cards are unrecyclable because they are made from thin plastic film, very like sticky tape, stuck onto card. The problem is it is difficult to remove the plastic from the paper in an automated process within the recycling industry. “But you can still reuse the cards, we cut them up and use the blank side for shopping lists and we know that some people cut them up and use next year as gift tags. Both are a good way to recycle and to save money. “Residents’ collections will also return to their scheduled collection day from the week beginning Monday January 24. More information can be found on the Council’s website at www.southhams.gov.uk/Christmas-Recycling”