The weird and not-so-wonderful objects blocking our sewers at Christmas

Novelty pants, fluffy slippers and turkey fat are just a few of the things that could be cleared from the sewers this Christmas - if previous experience is anything to go on.

Engineers from the water company Severn Trent are gearing up for call outs to all kinds of blockages over the winter break - but have asked people to think twice about what they put down the drain.

Muppet slippers taken from a drain. Credit: Severn Trent

The issue is more serious than it sounds, causing millions of pounds worth of damage each year.

Even parts of a motorbike have been found down there, but there's one item that sewerage companies get really worried about, and it's far more everyday.

Even part of a motorbike has been found in the sewer... Credit: Severn Trent

Fats, oils and grease being poured directly down kitchen sinks are one of the biggest culprits.

The solidified fats can block drains quickly. With no way through, the waste water backs up the system, coming out of drains and sewers in roads or even into homes.

People are being urged to dispose of fat, oil and grease correctly - wipe down any crockery before doing the washing up, use a fat trap, and put the waste in the bin.