THURROCK Council made the decision today (Tuesday, 19 July), to cancel bin collections after crews had worked until 9.30am after an earlier than normal start.

A statement issued by the council says: "Household waste collection have now been halted for the day to protect the welfare of waste crews working during a Red Extreme Heat Warning on the hottest UK day on record .

"After starting at 5am crews were able to work until 9:30am before temperatures got too high to continue.

"Collections will continue on schedule for the rest of the week and any bins missed today will be collected on Saturday.

"Please put all bins out for collection as usual and look out for updates. Crews will be starting at 5am everyday this week.

"If your bins were missed today then please put them out for collection on Saturday.

"Our waste crews walk over 65 miles a week as they collect bins from tens of thousands of homes, it's grueling physical work and in weather conditions like this it is vital we look out for their welfare. All crews were issued with sunscreen, hats, additional water and even ice lollies!

"It has been a tremendous effort this morning battling through the heat and we are sure you will join us in thanking crews for their hard work.

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"Thanks for understanding that in these unprecedented weather conditions it is vital we put the welfare of crews first."