UNSGHTLY waste, mainly building materials, has been dumped in a North-East back lane.

South Tyneside Council is investigating the incident where waste was illegally abandoned behind John Williamson Street and Dean Road on South Shields on Monday evening at around 5.45pm.

It is believed the rubbish was transported using a tipper vehicle.

Councillor Moira Smith said: “It is disgraceful that some people think they can dump their rubbish in our streets and back lanes.

“Abandoning waste is not only a criminal offence, it is very expensive to clean up, unsightly and can be harmful to the public and wildlife, even more so if targeted by arsonists.

“We will not tolerate it and will prosecute the culprits wherever possible.

“But we do need help from the public. We are appealing for local residents or anyone else who may have witnessed this incident to contact us with any information they may have to help us trace the person responsible.

“We understand that a vehicle was used so we would ask anyone with a description of the vehicle or registration details to get in touch.

“By working together we can tackle this scourge on society.”

To provide information on this incident or to report any flytipping incident in the area contact South Tyneside Council on 0191-427-7000.