'Co-operation is vital' in upholding environmental legislation

Co-operation between the public, the police, local councils and other officials is crucial in tackling breaches of environmental legislation, according to one expert.

Jim Crammon, from the Environment Agency, said that witnesses to fly-tipping should report the act to their local authority.

His comments follow the prosecution of one fly-tipper, Michael Reynoldson, who dumped wooden fence panels in a hedge off a farm track in County Durham and was reported to the police by a local resident.

"This case illustrates the importance of vigilance in the local community and we are very grateful to the witness for his public-spirited actions," stated Mr Crammon.

He added that he is pleased that Mr Reynoldson pleaded guilty to the controlled waste offence.

The defendant told police that he committed the act in "a moment of madness".

In related news, two men were recently fined £2,515 and £3,015 in Bradford for conducting an illegal landfill operation.

Posted by Joseph Hutton