In reply to John Tanner's appeal and letter to the Oxford Mail for a cleaner, greener Oxford.

There has been a battle at Overmead Green for just that aim, under attack by legions of maggots from our bins.

Their first offensive failed, drive back by the flats' occupiers. However, the maggots re-grouped, with other bin dwellers. I am glad to report their second assault was successfully repelled at midnight with brooms, first from passageways, and consolidated with household cleaners.

Bins were removed to a safe distance where, for the first time since their introduction, their lids could be closed.

We invite you, Councillor John Tanner, to take heart, be brave, above all, take the Queen's Shilling.

Remove filth, rubbish and vile smells: get back to weekly collections.

JOE RICHARDS Overmead Green Blackbird Leys Oxford