I REFER to your article about recyling (January 13) which supports the views of the Bolton and District Civic Trust.

In recent years there have been several articles in The Civic Trust Newsletter concerning the abuses that disfigure our town and surrounding districts; and, in particular, our submissions to the review of the Unitary Development Plan for the borough, urging greater emphasis on recycling.

Following Christmas and New Year, it was evident how little regard there is for the separation of recyclables from our refuse. No doubt bottles and cans contributed to the excess bulk in refuse awaiting collection.

Regrettably, where recycling collection points exist, they are often overflowing because the contractors are not removing with sufficient frequency. A particular example is the site provided by Safeways, Harwood, where all bins were full and large quantities were being left on the ground. The management of Safeways are assiduous in keeping the area tidy, but this task falls to the staff who should not have to endure it. These conditions are often the case not only during the Festive Season. One must question, who contracts with whom and for what service? It is evident that terms should be reviewed.

To make a real impact on the problem, authorities need to provide greater facilities and impose discipline.

It is evident that there are many residents who take their sorted waste to facilities, where provided: others have to be "educated" and the additional sites provided.

B H Tetlow

Chairman Bolton

& District Civic Trust

Oaks Lane

Bradshaw