Binmen loving new-found popularity in Milton Keynes

The delighted refuse collectors are finding themselves on the receiving end of cheers, waves and thank you letters as they are going about their daily rounds.

Children are leaving rainbow drawings out for them and adults are emailing their appreciation to bosses at contractors Serco.

A spokesman said today: "Our bin crews have loved seeing all the rainbow drawings across MK during our waste and recycling collection rounds.

"A big thank you to everyone who has cheered, waved and sent us letters/emails of appreciation."

Serco are struggling with staff shortages and extra volumes of rubbish all over MK. The higher volume is due to increased packaging from online orders and also people clearing unwanted clutter during lockdown.

This means collections may be delayed by a day in some areas.

"We normally get moaned at when we're late but now people are waving at us and cheering. It's great!" said one binman.

Garden waste collection services were suspended last week but the council is still confident that weekly black bag and recycling collections can continue.