THE headline for the front page of Monday’s Northern Echo was “Millions lost down the drain” referring to the illegal collecting of scrap metal by unscrupulous so-called recyclers.

I live in Carrville and we have a delivery lane at the rear of our house which is almost like a motorway for scrapmen.

The most vehicles I have seen coming up and down our lane touting for scrap is ten in a day.

Some do a good job and seem have a good attitude while some leave a lot to be desired.

Our house has been hit twice by the scrapmen’s overhanging loads and the police have been informed. The last wagon to hit the house had a youth perched up on the scrap pile obviously spotting for scrap in gardens.

The vehicle stopped and when we came outside to remonstrate they drove off.

I am sure if most of these travelling scrapmen had to submit to a vehicle check for tax, insurance, MOT and a licence they would be found wanting.

Eco warriors these guys are not – Jack the Lads more like.

Malcolm Rolling, Durham.