National Highways are begging motorists for their help top stamp out an 'entirely preventable problem' which risks lives. The Government-owned company - which is charged with operating, maintaining and improving motorways and major A roads - has begged people to stop littering from cars.
Although it might seem minor, littering means specialist teams have to go out to clean areas. Not only is this dangerous for the workers, but it also means lanes are closed while they do it - causing more congestion.
Andrew, a member of their litter-picking crew - said: "Litter on the network is a big problem. I guarantee we will be litter-picking an area heavily soiled with litter and we know we're going to be back there in days.
"When you think about it, it puts people in danger. People have to go out and pick that up. I've got family to go home to and the people around me have got family to go home to.
"I just can't understand it, how people can chuck it out the window. There is such a simple solution - just put it in a bag or a container, and pop it in a bin when you finish your journey. Bag, and bin it - simple."
A spokesperson added. "Litter is an entirely preventable problem. But people keep dropping it," a tweet read. "So our teams keep risking their lives every day to collect it from our road network.
"Our people are out picking litter on the road network every day. We never stop collecting litter. To keep our teams, we often have to close lanes to pick litter, which delays people's journeys.
"So, our teams often pick litter at night when roads are quieter, causing less disruption. But, whatever the time of day, picking litter puts our people at risk.
"Littering is illegal. If you're caught, you could be fined £500 - yet people still do it and it is killing wildlife and ruining the environment. Do your bit - bin your litter."
