FOUR York bus drivers have been trained in how to operate bin lorries to help ensure waste collections can continue in the city if regular crews go off sick with coronavirus.

The First York drivers have developed skills in driving and manoeuvring the City of York Council lorries, operating the bin hoist and compacting devices, and learning safety procedures.

A First spokesman said they received training at the council’s Hazel Court depot last week and started working for it yesterday.

He said driving a bin lorry required a Class C HGV licence and First put out a message to eligible drivers and employees Simmy Hayward, Steve Ferry, Robert Dande and Chris Lucas had signed-up.

Managing director Marc Bichtemann said First had a close partnership with the council and began thinking how it could support vital community services.

"Our drivers already have the skills in handling a large vehicle, so it seemed ideal to transfer this capability to driving bin lorries and provide a quick solution to any sudden changes in its waste management workforce.”

Driver Robert Dande said: “We’re all used to working in the community, but with the buses and passengers so dramatically reduced at the moment, it’s a different situation.

"This is a chance to use our skills and help other essential services continue as normally as possible.”

Cllr Paula Widdowson, executive member climate change, said the authority was pleased to be welcoming First drivers to its frontline teams, adding:"It’s a really difficult time for everyone at the moment so this offer to provide fully trained drivers, who know York and our residents well, seemed an ideal opportunity to support each other."