Bin strikes fill streets with piles of festering rubbish

MOUNTAINS of fly-tipped rubbish and overflowing bins are lining a city's streets after dustmen went on strike.

- Adam Dutton

Residents say the bankrupt city of Birmingham is now being invaded by giant rats.

Families also say they fear for the health of their children after some residential areas were turned into a "stinking makeshift dump".

Refuse collectors have walked out on seven dates so far and have scheduled in at least 24 other days in response to pay cuts.

And the impact of the strikes can be seen in the Balsall Heath and Small Heath areas.

Locals there say recycling collection is often ignored and businesses in the area haven't had a waste collection in three weeks.

As a result, rotting litter and overflowing bin liners attract huge rats, while stray cats and foxes tear open bags in search of food.

Photographs also show household waste dumped in giant piles by the roadside including bits of old furniture and cupboard doors.