A refuse collector had a near-miss after a huge knife was dumped in a rubbish bag.

The binman, who works for Serco, stumbled across the large blade while on their rounds in the Canterbury district.

The knife was left sticking out of a purple sack.

Luckily, nobody was injured, but the authority has now issued advice.

Council spokesman Rob Davies said: "It's an isolated incident but serves as a reminder about making sure rubbish is put out responsibly in order to ensure the safety of the crews.

"All unwanted metal knives can be taken to the household waste recycling centres, where there is a skip for scrap metal.

"Alternatively, if this is not an option, put the knife in a plastic drink bottle by narrowly cutting open the top of the bottle and placing the knife inside, with the point facing downwards.

"Then tape off the opening to prevent the knife from falling out."

They said items such as broken glass and knives should never be put into purple sacks.

"Please help us to keep the crews safe as they go about their work," they added.

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