WHAT THE COUNCILS SAID:

They deny searching through rubbish, saying they simply note when contamination is visible. CCTV is not used to record the contents of bins, they said. Ashford, Bradford, Gateshead, Wigan and Gosport said their methods promote recycling, which saves money. Telford & Wrekin, Amber Valley, Test Valley, West Berkshire and Gosport said they tell residents when they spot contamination and other records help with complaints. Enfield said penalty notices are only issued following warnings and Peterborough said binmen are encouraged to report hostile incidents. Preston said CCTV is used to combat fraudulent insurance claims, Birmingham and Sandwell said footage helps officials investigate complaints and Aylesbury Vale and Wigan said cameras ensure safety of crews. Selby said problems with overgrown hedges are first flagged to highway authorities. Stoke-on-Trent said bins left out for too long are a problem for pedestrians. Stockport declined to comment.