ALONG others in the area I have tried to get a reaction to complaints about a most unpleasant smell from the drains at the bottom of Aldwark. Once upon a time there was a Medical Officer of Health to contact, then we had Public Health officers but now the health of the people is expected to come under Environmental Health.

That was the last department/person I was transferred to in my quest for remedial action.

Finally, I was told "it is nothing to do with the council, complain to Yorkshire Water".

This is not acceptable.

The problem has existed for many months; it comes from a gully which overflows when it rains and is empty of water when dry.

This could even date back to an excavation three years ago.

It appears there is a problem of division of responsibility for street drainage, but it is not up to a member of the public to sort it out.

For the benefit of people passing that point on the way into the city, please could we have a few heads knocked together so we can get some action on this public nuisance and possible health risk?

M J Potter,

Aldwark,

York.

Updated: 10:33 Thursday, December 20, 2001