Donkeys have been seen breaking into the newly introduced food bins in the New Forest.

Pictures shared with the Echo show that a group of donkeys had knocked over the food waste bin to feast on its contents.

The bins are newly introduced, having been rolled out this week as part of a new refuse collection scheme.

It's these food waste caddies that the donkeys have been able to access.

Commoners' Defence Association chair Andrew Parry-Norton says his inbox has been inundated with pictures of donkeys eating from the bins and the subsequent aftermath.

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He said: "We have pictures being sent into us left, right and centre of donkeys rummaging around the bins.

"Donkeys have already figured out how to undo the lid, and then they just help themselves.

"It is only the first week, and it is causing a problem."

Mr Parry-Norton is particularly concerned about the upcoming pannage season, where pigs are released to roam the forest floor during Autumn.

He is certain that the pigs will be able to enter the bins, and run a significant risk of developing serious diseases from eating human waste that could to "millions of pounds" of damage to the swine population.

"The pigs will be in that (bin) in seconds," added Mr Parry Norton.

Under the council's current advice, the outdoor food bin is recommended to be put out after 6pm the day before, but Mr Parry-Norton says that should be changed to just before collection.

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Food waste collected goes to an anaerobic digestion facility to create fertiliser and renewable energy.

The council said it has patrolled areas including Brockenhurst, East Boldre, Pilley, and Norley Wood.

A spokesperson for the New Forest District Council said: "The move to bins and caddies is already leading to a massive improvement in street cleanliness.

"The previously used rubbish sacks were often ripped open by the free-roaming animals, as well as seagulls, and foxes."

They added: "Officers report seeing a handful of examples of donkeys interacting with waste containers, across a collection area covering around 1,650 properties. "

Chris Noble, Assistant Director for Place Operations, said: "We have already had a helpful discussion with the Commoners Defence Association, and will seek to meet with our other partners, including Forestry England, and the Verderers, to review our observations and discuss additional ways to reduce the chance of animals accessing food waste."