EARLIER this month someone stole my recycling bin from outside my bungalow. I called the police to report the theft and was given an incident number.

On the Monday, I rang the council to report the incident and was informed by a rather curt female employee with a poor manner and lack of sympathy that it would cost me £20 to replace.

Being an 84-year-old pensioner I will find paying this amount rather difficult.

It clearly states on the wheelie bin that it is the property of Durham County Council.

If this is the case, why am I expected to pay for something that does not belong to me?

This has left me quite bemused.

It belongs to the council, someone chose to steal it, so why should I have to pay for another one? Odd.

Can anyone enlighten me please?

Mrs J Fullard, Brandon.