BINMEN are refusing to empty Margaret Corkill's recycling bin . . . because she puts a bin liner in it to keep it clean Houseproud Mrs Corkill, of Bardon Close, Halliwell, has lined her bin since the recycling scheme started.

When she first missed out on a collection, she thought it was an oversight.

It was only when she spoke to a council worker two weeks later, after she missed out again, that she found out what the problem was.

The council says the liner could contaminate the whole load.

Mrs Corkill, aged 59, said: "I've always put a liner in the bin because it's the best way to keep it clean.

"The bins can get really messy and smelly, especially in the summer, and putting a liner in helps keep them clean.

"I make sure it's securely fastened and it's always still in place when the bin's been emptied.

"When they didn't collect for a month, I stopped the van and asked them why. The driver said it was because I had put a liner in it. I think it's ridiculous.

"I'm recovering from a major operation and I can't physically clean the bin myself. Now the council has said they will only collect my bin if I remove the liner."

A Bolton Council spokesman said: "We are unable to collect green bins containing plastic bin bags as this is non-recyclable waste and would contaminate the entire load, spoiling the efforts of other recycling households.

"The green bins must be loaded straight on to the refuse vehicle for emptying so there is no opportunity to remove the plastic bin lining. Residents are instructed to put only grass cuttings, leaves, twigs, prunings, hedge clippings, flowers and plants, uncooked fruit and uncut vegetables in the green garden waste bins.

"Please do not put plastic bags, food from the kitchen, bricks, stones, rubble, soil, pet waste, litter and household rubbish in the green bins."

The spokesman said anyone with queries on recycling issues should contact the council's recycling helpline on 01204 336633. Elderly or infirm residents requiring help moving their bins should contact 01204 336632."