Trade in your old ladder

Damaged ladders can be exchanged for discounted replacements under a new safety initiative backed by the city council.

The 2010 Ladder Exchange offers anyone who wants to swap a broken, bent or damaged ladder the chance to get a discount at participating retailers. The scheme is open until November 30.

For details of participating traders see www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.

Environment leader councillor Robert Aldridge said: "There is nothing wrong with using a ladder if it is in good order, right for the job and used properly. However, you could be gambling with your life by using a dodgy one."