FOOD waste collections have been suspended across Sandwell to prioritise household waste and recycling collections during the coronavirus pandemic.

Sandwell Council is advising residents that has suspended food waste collections until further notice due to "staffing reductions."

Garden and bulky waste collections, new bin requests and bin repairs are also suspended and the tip at Shidas Lane, Oldbury, is closed until further notice.

A council spokesman said: "Due to some staffing reductions, we have decided to suspend food waste collections until further notice.

"Please put any food waste that can’t be composted into your general waste bin for the time being.

"Food waste such fruit and vegetable peelings can be composted at home."

Councillor Maria Crompton, Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader, said: “We’re sorry for any inconvenience and would like to thank everyone for their understanding at this time.

“We also thank our bin crews for keeping critical services running as best as possible during this emergency situation.”

Should there be daily delays to household waste and recycling collections, residents are advised to leave bins out at the edge of their property and they will emptied as soon as possible.

Any garden waste during this time can be composted in a home composter or bagged up and stored in the rear of properties or outbuildings such as sheds and garages.

Bulky waste items and other waste that cannot fit inside bins will also have to remain on the property until collections resume.