“Unprecedented” problems with collection vehicle breakdowns and staff shortages have been blamed for delays to bin collections in East Hampshire.

Many residential waste collections in the district - including general waste, recycling, garden waste and glass - are currently running behind by up to three days.

Residents are advised to put their bins out by 7am on their usual collection day and leave them in position until they are collected.

Claire Hughes, head of strategic commissioning at East Hampshire District Council said: “I would like to apologise for the poor service that East Hampshire residents are experiencing from our waste contractor Biffa.

“The council is working with Biffa and is using all of the mechanisms in the contract to ensure Biffa addresses these issues as swiftly as possible.

“Residents should rest assured that their bins will be collected, and we appreciate their patience in this matter.”

If your bin is not collected within three days of your normal collection day, go to www.easthants.gov.uk/bins and report it online.

Alternatively, you can call 0300 300 0013.