Dear Sir,
Paying Durham County Council £50 – the special reduced rate – for three years for  emptying the Brown Garden Waste bin was one of the worst mistakes I have ever made.
I would advise anyone thinking of taking up this option, even at this stage, to think again. Why? At the time of writing this cautionary tale, there have been four brown bin collection days.
I have put out my brown bin (the night before collection) out on three occasions. The bin men have failed to empty the bin on any of their visits. I have had to phone up Customer Care at DCC numerous times, to try to get the bin emptied, several days late. This has not only been costly but rather aggravating.
I have asked for a refund, as I certainly do not wish to have this song and dance for the next three years. They have refused my request.
To be fair, my next door neighbour had his bin emptied every time. This of course is even more perplexing. My advice to you would be, if you can put the waste in your green bin, do so.
Annoyed Resident
Name & address supplied