A scheme to stop seagulls ripping open rubbish bags is likely to be extended in one of Cornwall's ports.

The seagull-proof refuse sacks have been tested in Mevagissey.

For years the fishing village has suffered from scavenging seagulls tearing open the black bags littering the narrow streets.

Nearly 200 households were given the stronger sacks last August and residents, who pay �5 each for them, say they work.

Gulls have been attracted to over-flowing bins

Peter Moyle, operations manager at Restormel Borough Council, said the cost was of no consequence considering the results.

He said: "We have consulted with the residents and the majority support the refuse sacks.

"The streets have been a lot cleaner, so obviously it's better for the environment."

Other seaside towns including Brighton, where rubbish is also still collected in sacks, have also suffered from scavenging seagulls.

An RSPB spokesman said: "Gulls are attracted to urban areas by food in the form of rubbish left all over our towns.

"The only long-term solution is to remove the source of the food, and clean up all the rubbish.

"It is an ecological problem and it requires an ecological answer."