During a routine early-morning collection in a rural area, the battery ignited inside the refuse vehicle. Fire crews extinguished the blaze safely and no one was injured.

However, the incident has left the bin lorry permanently damaged and unfit for use. Replacing such a vehicle can cost around £250,000, with partial repairs running into six figures.

North Warwickshire Borough Council is urging residents to dispose of batteries and items containing them — such as vapes and small electronics — at designated recycling points or household recycling centres, not in general waste.

Cllr Margaret Bell said: ‘I am deeply concerned that this incident has occurred. The unsafe disposal of batteries presents a serious risk to our crews, our services, and the fire service.

‘A plea to our residents – please do not put batteries or vapes in any of our bins. As a council, we are thankful that no one was injured in this incident, and we remain committed to protecting the safety of our staff and the community.’

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