WE have just returned from Germany, where they appear to take recycling seriously.

They have three wheelie bins and bags.

They have the same size bins as ours for non-recyclable items, a small bin for paper, another small bin for compostable items, and large bags for other recyclable materials which are sorted by the council.

Each bin or bag is collected four-weekly.

The system seems to work - where I suspect that Wyre Forest's will not - because there is a practical volume allowed for with recyclable materials (as many plastic bags as required).

The system does, however, require commitment from households and from suppliers - in Germany you buy your carrier bags from the supermarkets, and the packaging is also less.

I'm fully in favour of increased recycling, but it must be given a chance by households and be carried out properly by the council.

SAM TALBOT

Sutton Road, Kidderminster