IN response to your report 'Sticky problem for crime fighters', (February 24), yes, we do have a problem. The numbers of residents and tourists are increasing along with all the garbage they leave behind such as take-aways, vomit, waste, syringes etc.

As fast as it is cleared up more takes its place. It's an endless, thankless and unpleasant job at times.

But without the council workers, who do their best to sort out these problems and keep our city streets clean, we should all perish under this rubbish.

Please don't criticise and look down on us as some of you do.

Help us take pride in our city.

PJ Markwick,

Forge Close,

York.

Updated: 11:15 Saturday, February 28, 2004