RECYCLING has repeatedly gone uncollected from homes in Colchester’s Berechurch Road, according to angry residents.

Richard Smith, 35, says attempts to do his bit for the environment have been hindered by Colchester Council failing to collect the recyclables.

Mr Smith and other residents have seen material left uncollected a dozen times since the council introduced a four-day week for collecting waste in July.

Families say binmen took their black bags, but have left piles of paper, plastic and garden waste outside homes.

Mr Smith said he could understand an occasional missed collection.

But he said he had complained six times to the council’s street services team and councillors – without any improvement in service.

Mr Smith said: “My neighbours and I understand the importance of recycling. We do our bit by separating our waste and putting it out in the correct bags and boxes on the correct day.

"I have e-mailed and called the contact centre. Every time they say it will be sorted out.

“The reality is, more often than not, it’s not collected, even though we’re putting it out at the right time in the right place.”

Council bosses last month revealed they were considering starting enforcement action to compel thousands of residents who do not recycle to start.

Mr Smith said: “I think the council should demonstrate it can collect recycling successfully from people who are bothering to recycle, and a lot of my neighbours do, before it bashes others with fines for not recycling. Improved collections in my neighbourhood would also improve recycling statistics.’’ Matthew Young, the council’s head of street services, said: “We strive to offer all residents an efficient and effective refuse and recycling collection.

“Sometimes there are rare instances where properties are missed. On these occasions we encourage residents to report this to the contact centre, so we can help provide a solution. We will investigate this matter further to ensure any issues are resolved.”