ILLEGAL gardeners are being urged to take advantage of an allotment amnesty.

Hartlepool Borough Council has given unregistered tenants until March 31 to come forward or face eviction.

Officials believe a significant number of gardeners are continuing to tend plots across the town without permission.

Projects Officer, Kate Ainger, said: “We know that allotments do change hands, often as a result of illegal sub-lets or sales, and this is a practice that we are keen to try and put a stop to.

“It is important that our records are up to date so that if an issue arises involving a particular allotment we know who we are dealing with and are able to contact them.”

Unregistered gardeners wishing to take advantage of the amnesty should call the council on 01429-523333.