COUNCIL chiefs have praised the public for its support in the battle against fly-tipping.

It follows the prosecution of a Keighley man who was seen dumping rubbish on land in the town.

Information from a witness was instrumental in bringing the offender to justice.

Stuart McGuiness was spotted driving-up in a Ford Transit van, off-loading black bin liners and setting fire to them in Damems Road.

Using details supplied by the witness, Bradford Council enforcement officers traced the van back to a rental company in Lancashire.

At the time the rubbish was dumped in January this year, the van had been rented to McGuiness, of Bracken Bank Avenue.

He attended an interview with enforcement officers and admitted fly-tipping in Damems Road twice, but claimed the rubbish was wood sheeting and not bin bags.

McGuiness agreed to pay a £400 fixed penalty notice, but Bradford & Keighley Magistrates’ Court was told that as no payment had been received, a prosecution was instigated.

After pleading guilty to depositing controlled waste, McGuiness, 36, was fined £583 with £350 costs and told to pay a £58 victim surcharge.

A council spokesman said: "This case shows that Bradford Council can tackle fly-tipping more effectively if members of the public are prepared to help us out.

"Fly-tipping is a crime against the environment and against communities which are sick of people dumping rubbish on the streets when there are lots of legitimate ways of disposing of it.

"We can’t have cameras and enforcement officers everywhere so if people are prepared to help we can make sure the criminals don’t get away with their anti-social behaviour.

"If you see fly-tipping taking place, please note down as many details as possible – including vehicle licence plate numbers – and inform the council."

Fly-tipping can be reported by calling 01274 431000 and asking for environment enforcement or online at bradford.gov.uk.