AS far back as I can remember we have had a superb refuse collection service in Bishopthorpe, with hard working, considerate and helpful collectors, who would also do that little bit extra to ensure people had the first-rate service for which they were paying.

Then along came recycling and, while I am not against this, I realised I was sorting the rubbish for the collection company, but did not get a reduction in fee I was paying for these services.

Now we are asked to accept that the rubbish will only be collected on a two-weekly basis but are not being offered back half our money.

It is now costing us twice the amount for the same service and I find this despicable and unjust.

I am perfectly able to take my own rubbish to the municipal skip but I would want the cash apportioned to this service deducted from the amount I have to pay the council.

Perhaps many others would do the same.

Finally, it is very difficult to find out when the tenders for rubbish collections are available because I should like to form a consortium to collect the rubbish at a far more competitive price.

Could someone please help me with this matter?

If anyone is like-minded please let me know and we can pursue the idea of forming a co-operative to handle the rubbish collections on a weekly basis and retain the good old-fashioned service we have enjoyed for years.

Stuart Browne,

Keble Park Crescent,

Bishopthorpe,

York.

Updated: 10:41 Thursday, June 02, 2005