Drinks firm Coca-Cola is continuing its collaboration with theme park owner Merlin Entertainments this summer with a push encouraging recycling at 11 of its attractions.

At 11 sites, including Legoland, Thorpe Park, Chessington and Alton Towers, 28 ‘reverse vending machines’ will be installed.

These encourage guests to recycle specially designed empty 500ml bottles with the chance to win VIP experiences at its attractions.

The recycling push takes place from this week until 6 September. This is the third year the drinks firm and Merlin have linked up to promote recycling.

"Plastic waste is a pressing environmental issue, and at Merlin, we are dedicated to raising awareness, and implementing effective and measurable solutions,” said Merlin Entertainments group sustainability director Dare Ilori.

“Partnering with Coca-Cola for the third consecutive year on this impactful initiative, we are proud to inspire and educate our guests on the importance of reducing, returning and recycling plastic waste.

“Together, we are committed to fostering a sustainable future and safeguarding our planet. We’re delighted to help encourage our guests to recycle their plastic, by rewarding them with the chance to win exciting VIP experiences."

Coca-Cola Great Britain marketing director Elodie Peribere added: “We share Merlin’s passion for entertainment, and goals for sustainability.

“Throughout the summer, guests at Merlin attractions will be able to recycle their plastic bottles using our reverse vending machines.

“We’re excited that, as well as being in with the chance to win some incredible VIP experiences, they’ll be helping us with our goal to recycle the equivalent of every can and bottle we produce.”

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