WHEELIE bins have proved a hit with the people of Worcester, according to a survey.

When 700 people were asked what they thought of the system, introduced to 12,500 homes in the city last September, 83 per cent said they were satisfied, compared with 77 per cent for the old refuse sacks.

At first, many people complained about the controversial scheme, which meant households had to use two bins - one for general rubbish and one for recycling.

Some of the peopel who complained to a special hotline were unhappy about collection times which meant they had to get up early to put waste out, while others were worried about how to keep the bins clean.

Most of the complaints came within the first month of the scheme starting and council bosses seized upon results of the survey as proof the scheme is working.

Coun Derek Prodger, cabinet member for the city's 'clean, green and safe' policy, said: "I think this is very good news. I remember when the service went into my ward in Bedwardine and it was criticised.

"My constituents have been very supportive and the results of this survey show the scheme is working.

"I'm going to pin this survey on the notice board so all my staff can see it - they are the ones who take the flak and go out in all kinds of weather to collect the waste. I'm delighted for them."