Local people who put their rubbish out for collection early are encouraging rats, seagulls and other pests, according to Monmouthshire County Council.

A number of complaints claim litter has been strewn over streets across the county, after being attacked by pests, including foxes.

MCC has asked residents to avoid putting out their recycling and waste for collection earlier than necessary, to avoid attracting the noses of vermin. ??The problem has worsened during the warmer months, and is the source of most waste complaints, said a council spokesperson.

Officers at MCC have said that all collection material should be placed kerbside by 7am on collection days, but acknowledged this was not always convenient. ??Residents have now been asked to not put out their collection earlier than the evening before. ?

Monmouthshire’s cabinet member for waste and recycling, Councillor Bryan Jones said, “We’re generally very happy with the way in which residents have embraced the disposal of household waste and the vast majority place it for collection so it doesn’t linger longer than required.

  “We’d now like to see everyone following the same pattern.”

Sue Parkinson, waste education officer added, “A useful feature of the council’s website is the My Monmouthshire page where local residents can register to receive a reminder of when their waste or recycling will be collected next.”

  For further information on waste and recycling visit: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste