A FLY-TIPPER has been hit with a "hefty fine" after dumping several bags of rubbish in an alleyway in Newton-le-Willows.

James Clarke, of Market Street, Earlestown admitted to a fly-tipping offence which took place in June last year.

Environmental officers were called to Market Street on June 15, 2017 following a report that waste had been illegally left in an alleyway.

On searching the waste - which consisted of several bags of general rubbish, a large white household appliance and builders' waste - officers were approached by Clarke, who admitted to the offence.

Clarke, 22, appeared Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens Magistrates’ Court earlier this month where he was ordered to pay a total of £1770. This consist of a £1,000 fine; £700 in costs and a £70 victim surcharge.

Welcoming the fine, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for better neighbourhoods, Cllr Lynn Clarke, said: “In this particular case, the defendant was issued with a hefty fine which I hope will send a strong message out that fly-tipping has a big price to pay and is simply not worth the risk.

“Fly-tipping is a serious crime and cleaning up after law breakers puts the burden onto local tax payers, while preventing planned work from taking place.

"We will not hesitate to take those believed to be responsible to court.”

To report fly-tipping, call 01744 676789, or visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/contactus

Alternatively, residents can report fly-tipping on the council's free mobile app which can be found by searching 'St Helens Council' in your app store.