Bin collection crews in Rutland are to begin their rounds earlier this week to avoid operating throughout the hottest periods, Rutland County Council has announced.

Rounds are to commence at 6 am rather than the usual time of 7 am, from Tuesday (July 7) until Friday (July 10).

Temperatures are forecasted to increase throughout the week, before peaking at 32°C on Thursday (July 9).

The change marks the second time in a month that Rutland County Council has altered its refuse collection schedule to protect workers from the heat, having also done so during the June heatwave, when the mercury reached 35°C.

The council has requested residents put bins and caddies out the night before collection, or no later than 6am on collection day.