IN reference to the photograph in the Guardian regarding the unsightly state of the alleyway between Beeston Street and David Street, I can see that mattresses and tyres pose a particular problem for disposal, but much of the rubbish could easily have been picked up by householders and placed in appropriate bins.

I am sure they personally were not responsible for depositing the mess, but whatever happened to community spirit and a desire to look after the area where you live?

I deplore the attitude that it is always someone else’s responsibility to sort out a problem.

At a time when councils are really under pressure financially, surely we could all play our part in looking after our environment and teaching children to do the same?

Barbara Keelty Northwich