SIR, Nobody will be surprised to learn that the garden refuse collections are not being reinstated by Scottish Borders Council.

Two reasons for this are that the democratic process where councillors think for themselves and vote accordingly is gone, and fear of losing their seats on the coalition gravy train means councillors vote as they are told to vote.

You have the power to change this at the next council elections.

I am, etc.

Mr A Cruickshank Langleee Drive Galashiels