'RUBBISH thieves' which confused residents by taking bags full of used nappies and recycling could have been bin men picking up missed collections.

Those living in the Highwoods and Mile End areas of Colchester were concerned as a number of their black bags have gone missing.

The most recent case was over the weekend.

Clear bags full of paper and plastic have also been taken from the CO4 postcode area.

One resident who had her rubbish 'stolen' over the weekend, just off Berkley close, said: "I went out to sort the rubbish for collection and noticed someone had been in the front garden into my big plastic bin and had taken two bin bags of rubbish.

"It’s very weird. It’s just worrying as it could be someone trying to gather information for identify theft."

She later reported the incident to Colchester Council.

We contacted Colchester Council to see if staff were aware of the rubbish thefts.

Some residents had heard the issue was due to missed collections during the week of heavy snow, and this week bin men collected black bags as well as other waste.

However it is not known whether this was the case for all reports made.

Criminals commit identity theft by stealing personal information, usually from documents they find in the rubbish.

Essex Police advised residents should destroy any personal documents.

They said: "A stolen identity can result in identity fraud which can affect your personal finances and chances of getting a loan, credit card or mortgage.

"Destroy unwanted documents using a shredder. Don't throw away bills, bank statements, receipts or unwanted post in your name without shredding it first.

"Keep personal information somewhere safe like a lockable drawer or cupboard.

"Many fraud offences must now be reported direct to Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud-reporting centre run by the National Fraud Authority."

Anyone who has had their rubbish stolen should report it through the rubbish and recycling section at www.colchester.gov.uk.

A Colchester Borough Council spokesperson said: “We are not aware of being contacted on this issue. However, we would remind anyone disposing of anything containing personal information to ensure it is shredded before it is placed out for collection.”