I am writing in response to the story Recycle Your Waste Or Face Fine Of £1,000 (News Shopper, April 19).

I totally agree residents should be encouraged to recycle as much of their rubbish as possible.

However, don't make it a crime if they do not.

If anyone watched the programme about rubbish on Channel 4 last month, they would have seen there are so-called waste contractors and other dodgy operators who are getting away with flytipping on a massive scale and even setting up illegal dumps and incinerators.

Let's get things in perspective. Target these major criminals, not forgetful householders.

Michael Waitimas Beckenham