Staff shortages are expected to hit garbage collection over the next few weeks, the public works ministry warned last night.

A spokeswoman said residential waste collection would continue but it was “impossible to guarantee service every day under the current conditions”.

He added: “Depending on the staffing level on a given day, it will be challenging to maintain services, which may result in some residential garbage going uncollected.

“Should this occur, the ministry will advise the public and do its utmost to restore regular residential collection as soon as possible.”

The spokesman said the public could take their trash to the Tynes Bay Incinerator, which is open from 7am to 7pm every day.

The ministry thanked the public for their patience, and apologised for the inconvenience.