Rutland County Council is condemning the behaviour of a small number of residents who have directed verbal abuse at waste crews while out collecting bins.

The council has been notified of several incidents where crews have been subjected to verbal abuse and threatening behaviour because they cannot collect waste and recycling that is left on the pavement next to wheelie bins.

Councillor Gordon Brown, Cabinet Member for Waste and Environmental Services at Rutland County Council, said: "We wholeheartedly condemn the use of verbal abuse or threatening behaviour towards any of our staff or contractors. This is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"Waste crews are working extremely hard to keep refuse collections running as normal, under incredibly difficult circumstances. Because of staffing pressures and other operational issues we simply cannot accept extra waste or side waste at this time. It might not seem like a lot but trying to collect side waste would seriously threaten our ability to keep bin collections running as normal.

"We can only collect waste that's contained inside bins so please think carefully about what you're throwing away and consider what items you are putting out for recycling. We know this isn't easy with people staying at home but we are doing everything we can to maintain our normal collection schedule and are grateful to all those who can help by cutting down on waste, wherever possible."

Coun Brown added: "We've seen some wonderful messages of thanks and support from people who recognise what an incredible job our waste crews are doing, so it's even more disappointing to hear that a small number of people feel it's acceptable to direct abuse at workers. It isn't, so please stop."