REFUSE collectors gave a little boy a day to remember by giving him a close-up view of their vehicle.

Dustmen employed by New Forest District Council staged a surprise for three-year-old Joshua Smith, who needed cheering up after breaking his leg.

They spent several minutes showing him how their vehicle works after stopping outside his Marchwood home.

The surprise visit was arranged after Carl Smith told the council his son was fascinated by dustbin lorries and asked if there was anything it could do to lift his spirits.

Dave Wheeler-Osman is the authority's waste and recycling supervisor.

He said “The team recognise Joshua as he gives them a wave from the window every week and we were only too happy to spend a few minutes showing him the wagon.”

Carl added: “It’s such a shame Joshua has broken his leg as he usually helps me carry the rubbish bags to the front of our house and the truck coming is always the first thing he talks about when he gets up."

Referring to the visiting vehicle he added: "He has lots of toy trucks - and one is just like this one.”

Joshua was shown around the driver's cabin and the rest of the vehicle. He and his dad dad got to press one of the buttons that operates the machinery before the crew presented him with a get well card and his very own NFDC cap.

Carl told the crew: “We would never forget when the rubbish has to go out as Joshua tells us ‘it’s bin day!’ every Wednesday.

Several people have taken to social media to praise the waste crew for making the little boy's day.

One woman said: "Well done guys, such a special thing to do for Joshua." Another added: "What a lovely gesture."

Meanwhile Joshua is recovering from his recent injury. The cast came off on Tuesday and his family say his leg is healing well.