I WRITE in response to the recent letter from Heather Causnett (July 14) relating to City of York Council's latest initiative to combat litter.

The authority has noted a significant improvement in cleanliness standards over the past twelve months, but it is clear we cannot stand still.

Recognising the contribution of those that take responsible action with their litter has been trialled by other authorities with some success.

Enforcement and street cleaning are just two solutions to the £1.5 million litter problem in our city and we are keen to find more. I agree with Mrs Causnett that seven street environment officers cannot possibly solve the problem of litter on their own.

This is where citizenship and local pride becomes so important and as part of York Community Pride and York Business Pride everyone can contribute towards making York a cleaner city by taking litter off our streets.

There are many unsung heroes in York who readily do their bit to keep their neighbourhood and city clean and tidy and it is these kinds of people we wish to applaud and see recognised.

We thank those businesses that have already contributed to the rewards, and trust that the Evening Press will help us to publicly thank those involved at the end of the campaign.

I would encourage any businesses that haven't received a letter but would like to support this worthwhile campaign to contact the Street Environment Service via York Pride Action Line on 551551.

Jackie Armitage,

Street Environment Manager,

City of York Council,

St Leonard's Place,

York.

Updated: 11:00 Monday, July 18, 2005