People have vented their frustration online after rubbish was left piled by the roadside for days following the start of a new collection schedule.

There have been numerous complaints by people living in Epping Forest on Twitter, with some people claiming that their rubbish was left uncollected for up to four weeks.

The new arrangments involve contractor Biffa carrying out collections between Tuesday and Friday, rather than on Mondays.

Some people said they were not aware of the changes, while others claim collections have been missed.  

St Nicholas Place in Loughton was one of many roads to be hit by problems.

Resident Elaine Macro wrote: “EFDC are embarrassed and cannot sort it out.

“Meanwhile we are surrounded by rubbish that should have been collected last Thursday.

“Every morning the bags are all over the road after being ripped open by foxes.

“It is just disgusting.”

There were also reports of fly-tipped rubbish, including nappies and sanitary towels, left on the ground for days.

The council has admitted there were “teething problems” with the new schedule last week.

A council spokesman said: “We would like to thank residents for their patience during the transition phase to the new timetable.

“There is bound to be some confusion and teething problems with such a major change but we hope residents will bear with us as we move to an enhanced and improved service.

“If we have missed your collection we will be back to collect it.”

To register an official complaint, use the council’s online form.