Binmen out on the streets collecting household refuse each day have been “overwhelmed” with public support during the lockdown emergency.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Not gone unappreciated... vital refuse collections down your street. Picture: Business WasteNot gone unappreciated... vital refuse collections down your street. Picture: Business Waste (Image: Business Waste)

Families have been leaving messages and even gifts with their dustbins for the “kerbside key workers”.

One contractor, Business Waste, has praised families on their rounds for the good wishes.

“People are showing they’re grateful for the hard work binmen do while recycling centres are closed,” the company’s Mark Hall said. “It’s brilliant to see a usually unrecognised sector being praised for their efforts.”

Barking and Dagenham Post: People have even left gifts out for the refuse collectors who are keeping this vital service going. Picture: Business WastePeople have even left gifts out for the refuse collectors who are keeping this vital service going. Picture: Business Waste (Image: Business Waste)

Bins have been decorated with pictures from children, while some households even leave gifts like a six pack of beer to say thanks to the unsung refuse collecting heroes.

Others write messages saying they’ve sanitised the bin handles as there is a sanitiser shortage.

Business Waste recommends sealing tissues and disposable cleaning cloths in smaller plastic bags for 72 hours before putting them in a black bag in the dustbin.