REFUSE collectors in East Hampshire took Òunofficial actionÓ on Monday morning when the second phase of the alternate weekly collections system was introduced.

Onyx, East Hampshire District CouncilÕs refuse contractor, confirmed that members of its workforce took the action following a dispute over the allocation of work on the first day of the second phase of the scheme.

The company confirmed that it had been in discussion with its workforce over the changes to working methods as a result of the recent changes to the refuse and recycling system.

They also stated that the issue was Òquickly resolvedÓ.

EHDC spokesman Steve Bradley said: ÒWe are glad that they resolved this quickly and that it did not cause any problems to the rounds.Ó

Phase one of the scheme was dogged with controversy after 4,000 residents were given the wrong information about what day bins would be collected because an incorrect database had been used by Onyx.

Later, some residents reported that the scheme had caused rat and maggot infestations in their bins.

But Mr Bradley said: ÒWe have provided advice which is straightforward. If bins are closed then rats cannot get in and if food is wrapped it will not attract insects.Ó

Phase two, delayed from September due to Òoperational difficultiesÓ, saw 26,000 homes, including Buriton, Liss, Clanfield, Colesmore and Priors Dean, East Meon, Froxfield, Hawkley, Langrish, Steep and Stroud, switch to the new system of refuse collection.

Patrick Burridge, cabinet member for environment and the countryside, said: ÒAs we implement Ôalternate weekly collectionÕ in the second half of the district, we have done everything we can to ensure there will be a smooth transition.

ÒHowever, in the first weeks there are bound to be some properties missed as new crews get used to new rounds.Ó

Mr Burridge urged residents who experience difficulties to ring the waste reduction team on (01730) 234288.

EHDC praised residents in the first phase of the scheme earlier this year for their contribution to a huge rise in recycling in the area.

Recycling figures rose by ten per cent in just four months, and councillor Judy Onslow said: ÒResidents in the first phase of alternate weekly collection deserve to be congratulated for their efforts, which have resulted in a major increase in recyclingÓ.

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The scheme involves the collection of refuse in green bins one week followed by recyclables in black bins and garden waste the next week.