RESIDENTS across the Dudley borough have been showing their appreciation for bin crews who are working during the coronavirus lockdown.

Handwritten notes and rainbow drawings have appeared on wheelie bins as residents give thanks to crews who have been working at a reduced capacity since the outbreak began.

Pictures have been posted on social media and residents are encouraged to continue to post them over the coming weeks, using the hashtags #bravoforbinmen or #dudleystayshome.

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental, highways and street services, said: "Our bin crews are doing an amazing job during this difficult period for all of us and I’m really proud of them.

"It’s lovely to see the cards, pictures and little gifts left for our crews by appreciative residents. Our bin crews are quite modest, but they are providing an essential service and I’m glad to see them getting the recognition they deserve.

"We all need to pull together during this crisis, play our part and say thanks when we can."

Green bin services are temporarily suspended but weekly waste and fortnightly recycling collections continue as normal.

Residents self-isolating because of symptoms, should take extra care with the waste they are putting out for collection. Personal waste such as used tissues and disposable cleaning cloths should be stored securely within disposable rubbish bags.

These bags should be placed into a second bag, tied securely and kept separate from other waste. Where possible this should be put aside for at least 72 hours before being put in your usual external household waste bin or communal area.