SIR – Regarding maggot infested bins and gardens, I returned home yesterday evening to find not only my bin but my patio and utility room infested with maggots all originating from my wheelie bin. It took me two hours of bleaching, hosing and brushing to

SIR - Regarding maggot infested bins and gardens, I returned home yesterday evening to find not only my bin but my patio and utility room infested with maggots all originating from my wheelie bin. It took me two hours of bleaching, hosing and brushing to clear the problem, only to find more maggots in the bin and on top of the bin again this morning. I used four bottles of bleach and boiling water to clear the problem this morning.

I do not put anything in my bin without it being sealed in tied bin bags and in some cases double bags as per the council's recommendations. I keep the bin lid closed at all times apart from of course to put rubbish bags inside it. I also pay to have my bin cleaned regularly. It makes no difference.

I have lived in Mid Beds for 13 years and have only encountered this problem since the council moved to fortnightly collection.

Last night took the biscuit as the maggots were not only in the bin but entering my house, My utility room floor and back door were covered in them, as was the patio area around the back door. I had to walk over them to get into the house to obtain my cleaning products needed to deal with the problem

I have two young children who are at home every day and I fear for their health. They walk along the patio and pass the maggot infested area continually every day to get to the garden where they play. My toddler picks everything up as toddlers do and I fear he may pick up the maggots then put his fingers in his mouth.

This is a serious environmental health hazard. I have reported this matter to the council, as usual they do not listen and blame me as opposed to their policies designed I am certain to save money. Their environmental health department must be making a sizeable profit from residents using their services to decontaminate their bins and gardens.

I spend every second week decontaminating my bin but last night having to decontaminate my house and garden was wholly unacceptable.

I have sent this letter to Mid Beds District Council and await a reply. Next time it occurs I will take photographic evidence and lobby my member of Parliament.

This problem makes the summer months unbearable, which is usually a time to enjoy being outdoors with my children. In the days leading up to bin collection I take my children out rather than having them play in the garden due to the smell and maggots emerging from the bin.

I should not have to leave my house and garden due to refuse issues.

I am now a very angry resident requiring action to be taken. This is 2006 - we should not be living like those in the Middle Ages.

AMANDA BELL

King Street

Potton