A MOTHER has criticised refuse workers for leaving a trail of rubbish behind when they empty her bins each week.

Jacqueline Roscoe, of George Street, Darlington, said litter was regularly scattered along the back alleys near her home after bin collection day.

"It's just blown all over the place and there is rubbish absolutely everywhere," she said.

"There was even a sanitary towel this week. The kids are playing out in the street in that. I think it's disgusting."

Mother-of-two Mrs Roscoe said she had complained to Darlington Borough Council on numerous occasions.

"They should have someone following the bin wagon and clearing up afterwards," she said. "Sometimes they send someone out the day after, but by then it's too late."

A council spokeswoman said the litter had been cleared and the area would be regularly monitored in future.

She urged residents with similar problems to call the council's litter hotline on (01325) 388777