Pink recyling bags have been left uncollected in Basildon after driver shortages caused by sick staff. 

The issue is still unresloved by the council and pink sack recycling collections continue to be suspended over the weekend and on Monday.

Basildon Council commented:"Pink sack recycling collections continue to be suspended over the weekend and on Monday because of operational issues. If you live in the Pitsea, Vange or Wickford areas please don’t put sacks out for collection tomorrow (Saturday) or Monday. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause."

Residents were advised to bring the rubbish bags into their homes and are still unclear as to when they will be collected next.

Echo: Resident describes the area as a "sea of pink."Resident describes the area as a "sea of pink."

The driver shortage affects pink bag collections in all areas in Basildon including Five Links Estate, Fryerns and Craylands, Pitsea and Vange.

A Basildon Council spokesman said: “Pink sack recycling collections have been suspended since Wednesday as we work to resolve some operational issues. Residents are advised to take in their sacks until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience this is causing.”

The bags were left uncollected in Laindon yesterday, a Basildon Councilor, Jeff Henry said: "Due to a driver shortage caused by sickness and staff isolating, pink sacks will not be collected today."

Vicky Delfino, 38, a Laindon resident said:"The streets are like a sea of pink, everyones bags are still out on the street.

"The council annonced the bags wouldn't be collected two hours after eveyone put them out and went to work, we are still in the dark as to when they will be collected."

"I'm sure the foxes will be having a feild day."

Echo: Pink sacks are still left on the streets.Pink sacks are still left on the streets.

Langdon Hills Estate Residents Association added: "Please think of the environment and don't put into black bags, appreciate for some storing is an issue. I believe Barleylands will take the pink sacks direct."

Pat Rackley, 71, a former Labour councillor and Laindon resident, said: “The bin men are normally absolutely brilliant and work really hard.  

“We are in a situation now with bags everywhere and the problem is I doubt people will continue to recycle, I just hope the issue can be resolved as soon as possible.”