HOW did City of York Council dream up the idea of rewarding people who do as they should and put litter where it belongs - in a bin ("A Rubbish Idea", July 11)?

Once again, like the fining of louts who drop chewing gum, how on earth do they to monitor this latest crazy plan?

Apparently a mere seven street environment officers intend to cover the city.

Even with the help of the most well-meaning and diligent police community support officers there isn't a snowball in hell's chance that everyone who has the good manners to bin litter could be rewarded.

People who strew streets with fag ends, chewing gum, crisp packets and the like are hardly likely to change their ways to claim a prize, now are they?

Unless they carry their rubbish around until within sight of a vigilant street environment officer, make sure that using a rubbish bin is noticed by said officer and then say "Look, see that? Don't I deserve a prize?"

I certainly believe that people seen to drop litter should be penalised. Even catching a small number would be worthwhile, but I would draw the line at rewarding people who behave decently.

And why should shopkeepers and businessmen fund such a hare-brained scheme?

I hope they give any suggestion that they should a verbal elbow - better still, simply say "Rubbish!"

It is a sad reflection on today's society that people have to be coaxed and bribed to show normal, good behaviour and this latest ill-conceived, unworkable and unproductive idea should be consigned to the suggestion box in Cloud Cuckoo Land, without further ado!

Heather Causnett,

Escrick Park Gardens,

Escrick,

York.

Updated: 09:39 Thursday, July 14, 2005