SHOPPERS were stunned to see rubbish tipped into the street as they browsed for bargains in Wimborne.

A bin lorry emptied its contents in the town centre on Monday (December 1) after a fire started among the collected waste.

“Our collection crew noticed smoke coming from the rear of our truck and ejected the contents before the vehicle was damaged,” a Dorset Council spokesperson said.

“Our colleagues at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue were quick to close the road and extinguish the fire, and thankfully no-one was hurt. The street has been fully cleaned and swept.”

They said although the cause of the fire was uncertain, it was “quite likely” linked to the disposal of batteries in bins, which can ignite when crushed.

“Please remember, batteries of any kind should never be placed in any bins – always use a battery bag for kerbside collection, or take your batteries to a household recycling centre or battery drop-off point,” the spokesperson added. “Thank you for your cooperation.”

The bin lorry emptied contents in the centre of Wimborne. Pictures: Dorset Council