IT looks like the bin war' has been won - despite simmering resentment from some of those affected.

Complaints about the closed lid policy have almost stopped and recycling rates are up around 30 per cent, compared to 20 per cent last year.

Clr Brian Axcell, head of environment services for the borough council, said: "It has ceased to become a significant issue with just the odd case at one or two rural properties. I think people have got the message.

"The public has been quite superb in playing their part. We couldn't ask them to do anymore."

The Warrington Guardian contacted some of the people who complained to see if they had been won round.

Alan Green, from Grappenhall, said: "It is not a success, more an acceptance of defeat. The next rule will probably be just as annoying, like having your bin weighed before and charged accordingly."

Tony Evans, from Ellesmere Road in Culcheth, said: "It's not a case complaints have died down. People think there is nothing they can do. It is the equipment that is at fault. It is the equipment that must be adapted."

Council policy has been that bin lids were supposed to be closed since they were introduced in 1990.

The council only started a zero-tolerance enforcement this summer for refuse collectors' health and safety after a spate of accidents.