This dead rat was left decomposing on the top of a litter bin in Deal for at least three days.

Residents say the discovery highlights how rubbish is not being cleared often enough.

Maureen Baker, of Trinity Place, took a picture of the rat on the council-owned waste bin last Friday, and another three days later on Monday.

As well as concerns about the possible health risk, food wrappers are overflowing on to a green space in the estate and the stench is “vile”.

Mrs Baker said: “The point I am making is these bins need emptying on a regular basis.

“They are used regularly and are always overflowing, surrounded by flies.”

The bin is close to the Golden Fillet fish and chip shop in Mill Hill and the Peking Palace Chinese takeaway.

Other hot spots where bins regularly overflow include Deal seafront at Beach Street.

A council spokesman said: “We can confirm that this bin has been emptied and cleared this morning (Tuesday).

“The bins in this area have scheduled collections on a Wednesday and a Friday.”