NO WAY was I criticising those gallant men who have the unpleasant job of removing our rubbish (Our Christmas waste collection was rubbish, Soapbox, January 4). They did a great job.

Surely the residents, if they are going away for the Christmas break, could leave their bins in their yards until they come back, then put them out on the next day of collection.

Have consideration for those who would like to see a clean street. If they were hit in their pockets with the threatened £100 fine, they would think again.

M Dalisen, Wellington Street, York.