Irresponsible residents are “ruining” the look of the city by fly-tipping next to communal bins.

Community groups have reported everything from washing machines and mattresses to gym equipment and lampshades being discarded at the side of the road in Brighton and Hove.

Liam Mandville, from the Brunswick and Regency Neighbourhood Action Group, said the problem was “disgusting” and called on the council and residents to take more responsibility.

He said: “It has been particularly bad recently. It makes our city look a mess and obviously has an impact on the environment.

“Residents need to take more responsibility when throwing things out and try using secondhand websites such as Craigslist.com.

“I also think the council needs to be more flexible with its collections.

Somebody should be on call so that if a bin is overflowing, they can be contacted and come and collect it, almost like a rapid response team.”

He added the worst affected streets appeared to be Sillwood Place, Waterloo Street and Oriental Place along with the Moulsecoomb and Hollingdean areas.

Flemmich Webb, from the Brighton 10:10 environment group, added: “I think it’s disgraceful.

“We should be proud of our city and do everything possible to look after it.

“Not only does it look a mess but also causes an obstruction – especially for disabled people.”

ABrighton and Hove City Council spokesman urged residents to take any bulky items to the city’s recycling centres off Old Shoreham Road in Hove and at Wilson Avenue in Brighton.

He added: “Communal bins are designed for household refuse only – not large bulky items and we would urge people not to leave these alongside bins.

“As well as being taken to our recycling centre it can be collected for removal by using the bulky waste collection service.”

Collections can be arranged by calling 01273 608142.