AFTER reading another batch of readers' letters expressing their disgust and anger about the extortionate increase in the council tax, I turn the page to read an article on how the council is trying to justify halving the collection of household waste.

Further on in the paper (jobs Section), I find almost two full pages of jobs on offer at Bolton Metro, and seven of these are administration posts -- what a surprise!

In an article some weeks ago, it was stated that "If you want better services, you must be prepared to pay for them".

I, like most people (those contributing anyway), have no objection whatsoever to paying my way as long as I get these services, but the truth of the matter is we're not getting them.

Our roads are not only a complete disgrace, they're embarrassing. Speed bumps, traffic calming, pot holes, sunken drain covers, raised drain covers, road works, bridge works, cycle lanes, multi-coloured thingamajigs all over the road -- need I say more?

Parking charges, empty shops in the centre, filthy streets and, inevitably, despite any consultations, reduced refuge collections. City status! Ha! Not a prayer.

The list is endless, and there wouldn't be enough room for advertising BMBC vacancies if I went on.

Oh, by the way, has anybody noticed in the pile of "biodegradable, environmentally friendly, pile of clap-trap that came with your new tax bill, it states: "Each dwelling is given a Band according to its open market value at April 1, 1991. In 1991 my house wasn't worth £40k, but it is now -- think about it.

A Fraser

Blenheim Road

Bolton