The vehicle naming competition was launched in November last year and received over 200 entries, with 640 residents participating in the vote to decide on the winners from a shortlist created by the council’s waste crews.

Among the 16 successful entries were Bin Diesel, Binjamin, The Bin Reaper, and Rubbisharus Rex.

The new vehicles began operating on Tuesday last week. Their introduction marked the end of the use of recycling caddies among residents, as all recyclable materials can now be disposed of directly in blue bins.

According to the council, an additional £1.8m of investment will be delivered in April to support the rollout of the remainder of the fleet.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said the investment supports the council’s aims to deliver ‘reliable, high-quality services’, while providing teams with modern equipment that allows for both safe and efficient working methods.

She added: ‘Giving the vehicles their own names adds a bit of fun, but it also helps build pride in the service and strengthens the connection between the council and our local communities. I look forward to seeing them out on the roads supporting a cleaner, greener South Tyneside.’

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