BIN collections in Hartlepool will be suspended to allow refuse collectors to pay their respects to a colleague who died on his rounds earlier this month.

The man, who has not been publicly named, collapsed and died as he was carrying out his duties on Friday, July 13.

His sudden death was witnessed by colleagues who were left traumatised, upset and shaken.

To allow the man’s workmates and friends to attend his funeral, Hartlepool Borough Council has taken the decision to suspend household bin collections on Thursday, July 26.

Denise Ogden, Director of Regeneration and Neighbourhoods at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Our thoughts and sympathy are with our colleague’s family and friends at this very sad time.

“Everyone at Hartlepool Borough Council really appreciates the support and understanding that has been shown by residents following the sudden passing of a much-loved colleague.

“In order to allow work colleagues and friends the opportunity to pay their respects, we have taken the decision to suspend household bin collections on Thursday 26th July and reschedule these collections for Saturday 28th July.

“We thank residents in advance for their understanding at this very sad time.”

Residents whose bins are normally scheduled to be collected on Thursday are asked to put them out by 7am on Saturday morning.

In the event that not every bin is collected on Saturday, any remaining bins will be collected on Monday, July 30.

All other scheduled bin collection days remain the same.