The Maltese have a bad reputation for dumping their unwanted bulky goods in the countryside, despite the free bulky refuse service offered.

Some vandals decided to take it one step further by dumping pieces of furniture right in the middle of a pavement in Rudolph Street, Sliema, metres away from the police station. Were it not enough, the unwanted goods were dumped two days ago right below a 'Do Not Dump Rubbish' sign.

Residents said it was not the first time that such items were deposited on the pavement of the busy, narrow Sliema road.

Councillor Pierre Portelli said the selfishness of people knows no limits.

"The garbage in this part of Rudolph Street and other parts of Sliema is on the increase. No one respects the garbage collection times and what is worse in this particular case is that the council offers a free bulky refuse service for all the community three times a week.

"The council is always there to help and assist where we can, with our limitations and in the best way possible, but ultimately it is everyone's responsibility as citizens to do our part to contribute to a cleaner locality."