Martin rubbishes bin collection

Martin Marley with his bin

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A FAILSWORTH father is fuming after his wheelie bin filled with festive rubbish was left uncollected because its lid was raised by 11/2 in.

Martin Marley (52), from Lancaster Avenue, returned home on Thursday morning from a 12-hour night shift to find his bin still in its place. Bin men had collected black refuse sacks placed alongside it.

When father-of-two Mr Marley tried to contact the council department, he was told all the managers were unavailable.

He said: “I’m livid. I called the council last week to see if I could arrange an extra collection before this week and was told there wasn’t a hope in hell.

“I was assured the rubbish would be taken this week, but they’ve missed my bin, which is full of household rubbish from Christmas and New Year.

“The gap between the lid and bin must have been not much bigger than an inch.”

Mr Marley said his end- terrace house backs on to a railway and there have been problems with rats and mice.

He said: “Oldham Council go on about recycling, but they can’t even be bothered to empty people’s bins.

“People try and do their best but it is a totally inadequate service.

“I pay my council tax and for what? It makes me feel like not paying it.”

Refuse advice on Oldham Council’s website says residents should make sure bin lids are closed to ensure collection.

Councillor Mark Alcock, cabinet member for Environment and Transportation, said council officers found three bins at the property full of builders’ rubble.

He said: “The refuse service does not remove such material and in this instance could not physically move them.

“We will be giving guidance to ensure that the householder is clear on his responsibilities in the future.

“It is important that all residents are clear on what can and cannot go in the various bins that are provided for refuse and recycling by the council. For information and guidance call 0161-770 6644 or check the council website.”


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Pictures: DARREN ROBINSON