SCORES of writhing maggots have infested bins across Times Territory thanks to the recent spell of hot weather.

Karen Jones, of Thistle Grove, WGC, told the Welwyn Hatfield Times that the larvae had invaded her brown bin, causing a “putrid” smell.

The mum-of-two said she had cleaned out the bin – which houses garden and food waste – on at least two occasions but, each time, the grubs had returned with a vengeance.

Karen, pictured, described the smell as “absolutely foul”.

“It makes you gag,” she said.

The 43-year-old said she will no longer be putting any food in her brown bin and believes that, during such spells of hot weather, these bins should be emptied weekly rather than fortnightly.

Karen also revealed that when she called the council to report the problem she was told to clean her bin out with boiling hot water.

And, in a bizarre twist, she was advised: “Unfortunately, we can’t supply you with that.”

A bemused Karen said: “I am not asking them to supply boiling water, I want a proper solution!”

A council spokeswoman said: “Fly eggs tend to be laid on food that has been left out and, in hot weather, this may happen within a very short time.

“Common instances include uneaten pet food and leftover cooked meats.

“Similarly, while gardening, if there is food waste in a brown bin, lids should remain closed.”

She added: “In order to try and stem the problem, the council recommends that residents be mindful of leaving food open and exposed to flies and to transfer waste to brown bins or kitchen caddies quickly.

“Additionally, food waste may be thrown into household refuse on alternate weeks if residents do experience problems.”