While most of us get to take some much-needed rest over the festive period, a dedicated group of staff from all areas of Bucks Council continue to work around the clock, keeping services running smoothly.
Some of those working within Neighbourhood Services have shared the things they enjoy most about Christmas – and how residents can help manage waste, stay safe and find out how services will run during the festive period.
Roy Darragh is the chargehand at Pembroke Road Waste Transfer Station in Aylesbury.
What is the best thing about Christmas? “Everyone who works with me knows I run on biscuits so for me I love the Christmas biscuits available.”
Tell us what your job is like at Christmas time: “It’s manic, with 30 per cent more waste coming onto site over Christmas it’s my busiest time as I need to ensure the site has capacity for waste collection rounds to tip and continue working.
“I really enjoy being busy so it’s actually my favourite time. Residents can help make my job easier by not contaminating their recycling bin with non-recyclable items, such as metallic wrapping paper or glittery Christmas cards.”
Jason Nicholson is a mechanic at the Pembroke Road workshop.
What is the best thing about Christmas? “The older I get the more I value family, friends and food. It’s much less about the presents these days.”
Tell us what your job is like at Christmas time: “The build-up is hard as we work as a team to get the vehicles ready for their busiest time of the year.
“Residents can help make my job easier by driving with caution to reduce the number of accidents that require vehicle repair.”
Tom Malinowski is a sweeper driver for Street Scene Services in Bucks.
What is the best thing about Christmas? “I love the music at Christmas, I started to listen to songs back in October.”
Tell us what your job is like at Christmas time: “After 34 years working Christmas day, I am about to enjoy my third year in a row of not working it.
“Residents can help me by making the most of litter bins and not dropping it on the floor for me to sweep up.”
Cllr Peter Strachan, cabinet member for climate change and environment said: “We are all extremely grateful for the hard work put in by our neighbourhood teams across the county, not just during the festive period but throughout the whole year.
“Their efforts are to be applauded for the work they do in keeping our local communities safe and clean.”
Refuse collection dates will change over the festive period to allow for bank holidays. Visit the council website to check when your collections will take place.
There are also lots of ways you can help reduce waste and recycle as much as possible. Visit the Recycle for Buckinghamshire website to find out more.
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