Rubbish collectors have thanked the public for “heartwarming” messages left by children.

Brighton and Hove street cleaners and bin crews have been “amazed and delighted” to find notes, messages and pictures stuck to bins, front doors and windows saying “thank you” and telling the staff to “stay safe”.

Driver Daniel Reading, who covers Hangleton and parts of Hove, said: “When I and the other crews saw these pictures it really made us smile and let us know how much we’re valued and what an important job we’re doing.

The Argus:

“It really makes it all worthwhile, especially when we’re being thanked by children and their families. It really gives us a huge boost, so thank you so much from all of us at Cityclean.”

The images are decorated with rainbow smiles and faces, drawings of litter bins and colourful hearts.

The crews have already started displaying the posters in their lorries by hanging them safely in the top of their cabins.

The Argus:

Councillor Anne Pissaridou, chairwoman of the council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee, said: “Every one of our Cityclean staff are carrying out a fantastic job in these very unusual and difficult circumstances.

“Our street cleaners, and waste and recycling crews are working flat out to provide the best service possible. But we mustn’t forget the staff behind the scenes, including the management, who are organising the whole Cityclean operation every day to ensure the city is as clean and tidy as it can be.”

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund