Two bin men were attacked in separate incidents with one sustaining serious facial injuries.

The waste collection operatives were both assaulted within 30 minutes of each other yesterday.

Council bosses say the unprovoked attacks occurred as the men collected food waste in Skipper Grove, Stanway, and Anglesey Road, Wivenhoe, just after 4pm.

One of the victims is continuing to receive hospital treatment for serious facial injuries, while the other is recovering at home from his ordeal.

Martin Goss, Colchester councillor responsible for waste was quick to condemn the violence.

He said: “Let me be absolutely crystal clear – attacks on staff are totally unacceptable and is something we take extremely seriously.

"We will not tolerate abusive behaviour by anyone who feels the need to abuse or assault our workers.

“On behalf of the whole council, I want to wish both members of staff a full and speedy recovery.

“The police are investigating the incidents and I would urge anyone with any information to contact them on the 101 non-emergency number.”