Council in talks over meat find

Sainsbury's was today in talks with Sandwell Council after a lorry load of rotting meat was discovered dumped in a street in West Bromwich.

The grim discovery was made by residents of Wattle Road in the town when they got up yesterday morning.

Crates of meat, most with Sainsbury's labels and November 5 sell-by dates had been left overnight.

Horrified residents contacted the council, fearing the street could become infested with vermin.

The supermarket says it does not know how the packages could have got there. Sandwell Council, which cleared up the mess, confirmed today it was in talks with the company and one of its suppliers.

Councillor Mahboob Hussain, neighbourhoods boss for the council, said: "The meat was removed yesterday and taken to an incinerator in Tyseley, Birmingham, for disposal.

"Talks are currently being carried out with Sainsbury's and one of its suppliers about the matter.

"In the meantime we would appeal for any witnesses to contact us on 0121 569 6600 ."

J Sainsbury Plc confirmed the company is talking to the council about the matter.

A spokesman said: "We are confident that none of this has come from our stores."