RESIDENTS are being asked to help their bin crews as the coronavirus outbreak lockdown continues – and residents have been thanking the bin crew for their work.

Last September East Hampshire District Council based in Petersfield signed a new wheelie bin emptying deal with waste removal contractors Norse South East.

A council spokesman said: “There have been lovely notes and letters left for our bin collection teams.

“They genuinely appreciate every one as they work hard in difficult circumstances, so thank you.

“All of our crews have been briefed on social distancing and, wherever possible, are adhering to the guidelines -- but they could still come in contact with the virus.

“So we are asking for your help and for you to think about our crews during this coronavirus pandemic.”

The council says it’s more important than ever to put rubbish in the right bins -- recycling waste in black bins, and general rubbish in the green bins.

And recycling items should be clean, dry and loose when put in the bin.

Protective equipment such as overalls and masks should be placed in the green general rubbish bin.

If you have come into contact with anyone who is ill or self-isolating, your overalls and masks should be double-bagged and only placed in your rubbish bin after 72 hours.

The council spokesman added: “If you are ill or self-isolating please double bag any personal waste, for example tissues and anti-bacterial wipes.

“This waste should be kept separate from the rest of your rubbish and only put in the bin after 72 hours.

“And we should all be washing our hands more often, and especially before and after touching something that other people might touch.

“By washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water before and after handling your wheelie bins you can help keep your family and our crews safe.

“With more people at home the bin crews are having difficulties getting in to and travelling along some roads due to parked cars blocking access.

“So please make sure there is enough room for the refuse vehicle to pass your car on bin collection day."

For helpful hints on what you can and can’t recycle visit the council website at www.easthants.gov.uk/can-recycle