An investigation has been launched by council bosses after it emerged charities in Stafford were having to cough up cash to get their rubbish collected.Calls are now being made for the “mean” charges to be waived for charities following complaints.

Councillor David Seary was made aware of the charges by the Stafford division of St John Ambulance, in Lichfield Road.

“They have expressed some concern to me that they have to pay for the collection of their household waste,” he said.

“Stafford Borough Council, like all other local authorities, appears to have an option whether to charge a fee or not and it is understood that, in exercising that option, it decided to charge.”

“I have to say that, while understanding the need for the local authority to get as much income as possible, that to charge charitable organisations for this waste collection does seem a bit mean.

“It seems unfair not only on the hard-working charity, but also on those who donate to the charities – who I am sure do not expect their donations to go towards the collection of this waste.”

“I certainly feel this is something the council cabinet should think about for the future and, I hope, would next year take a more sympathetic and compassionate view of the charities’ situations and remove this charge,” he added.

Councillor Stan Highfield, the council’s cabinet member for environment and health, said the matter would now be investigated.

It is believed charities are charged for waste collection at a lower rate than those for businesses. Stafford Borough Council was today unavailable for comment.