I ALWAYS wondered whether Santa really does exist. However, I now know that he does.

He is alive and well and living in Bishophill, and thanks to him I am going to have the best Christmas ever.

So, Mr S****** of ** Fairfax Street, could I say a big thank you to you for putting your bin bags out early.

While sweeping your street the other day, I removed the two bin bags that were outside your property. Being a nosey so-and-so, I looked inside and found all sorts of information about you. Thanks to you, I have now ordered a brand-new 32-inch plasma TV, plus a new computer to write more letters to The Press, and I have secured a bank loan of £10,000, all thanks to you.

My Christmas is now looking better by the day. I hope I can use your details over New Year to get 2007 off to a good start.

Joking aside, I did remove your bags, I did see all your details, but not being criminally minded, I disposed of them properly.

Next time, it may be somebody else rooting through your bags.

People may get sick of the council going on about putting refuse out early, but identity fraud is rife in bin bags put out early. Remember, refuse collectors will take your rubbish on the correct day, criminals will take your identity.

PR Willey, Burnholme Drive, Heworth.