CONGRATULATIONS to Carol Partington for her initiative in trying to tackle the litter problem in Nether Poppleton (October 23).

There are similar problems in my own village of Copmanthorpe where some villagers, such as Carol, are also taking private initiatives.

We are also trying to encourage the parish council to be more pro-active by, for example, appointing voluntary litter wardens, working more closely with York council and generally encouraging a sense of civic pride among residents.

The real solution is to have a continuing education programme in our schools and colleges and among the public at large, highlighting the fact that dropping litter is anti-social and has no place in a civilised society.

I hope the Evening Press will continue to draw attention to this issue, so our beautiful Yorkshire villages and countryside are not spoiled by the sight of discarded crisp packets, cigarette packets and plastic bottles.

Nigel Brown,

Temple Garth,

Copmanthorpe,

York.

Updated: 12:32 Tuesday, October 28, 2003