Garbage collection has been delayed through to the end of the week, the Ministry of Public Works warned yesterday.

A spokesman said maintenance staff shortages caused by vacations and training, along with “ongoing supply chain issues”, led to a backlog of vehicles needing repair.

It followed praise for staff in June from Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the public works minister, for quickly turning around repairs to keep the fleet running.

The spokesman said the ministry hoped to clear the backlog with more vehicles on the road by the week’s end.

Staff worked yesterday to finish collecting Tuesday’s waste, and will continue to collect yesterday’s waste today.

The public were thanked for their patience, and reminded to manage bagged waste by storing it in lidded bins to cut down on lost garbage bags.

Vermin, birds and pets can tear open exposed garbage bags, leading to litter fouling roadsides.

The Tynes Bay free public drop-off is open from 7am to 7pm all week.