I WOULD like to thank K Pierce (Letters, June 27) for taking the trouble to write to the newspaper about West Devon Borough Council's collection of green waste.

I thought it would be helpful to clarify the situation and the reasons why the system is designed in the way it is.

We can collect four green waste bags from households during the summer period and eight during the winter. This is because we have a limited collection capacity within the vehicle and demand is, of course, much higher in the summer.

Unfortunately, it is not practical for the crews to check how many bags have been put out by neighbours and reassign capacity to other households as we have to work to an average weight system. The system suggested by K Pierce would slow them down, potentially lead to confusion and ultimately be unworkable. Other councils in Devon operate a similar regime.

The green waste collection is a complimentary service provided for the convenience householders and is not a statutory requirement.

One solution for people who have a lot of green waste during the summer is to try home composting. We offer home compost bins at a discounted price and information on how to get started on our website http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk

Helen Dobby

Head of Environment Services

West Devon Borough Council