REFUSE and recycling collectors in Darlington have received messages of support taped to bins as they continue their duties in the face of coronavirus.

Darlington Borough Council said an increasing number of residents had expressed their appreciation for the workers collecting rubbish.

The authority is encouraging residents to give their bin men a boost by cleaning the handles and lids of their bins before they put them out for collection.

Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “Our refuse collection teams do vital work all year round, in all weathers, so it is great to see the public using the coronavirus outbreak to show their appreciation for what the crews do for everyone.

“I would encourage people to keep decorating their bins and showing their support for crews as they work so hard to keep our bins emptied and our streets clean through these challenging times we are going through together.”