COUNCIL chiefs say they will do “everything in their power” to trace those responsible for dumping rubbish in a lay-by on the A66.

A mattress and other assorted rubbish were left in the lay-by on the A66 westbound near Long Newton, between Darlington and Stockton.

The items were reported by a passing motorist, although it is unclear how long they had been there.

Although the road is managed by the Highways Agency, responsibility for clearing litter falls to the relevant local council, in this case Stockton Borough Council.

Cabinet member for community safety, Councillor Steve Nelson said: “We appreciate the distress that fly-tipping incidents like this can cause and that’s why we are doing everything in our power to find the people responsible.

“Fly-tipping is a crime and will not be tolerated. Consequently, we are currently investigating this incident and have restored the area to its previous condition.”

He added: “We would encourage all residents to visit the household waste recycling centre or contact the council to arrange bulky waste collections and to always check whether any builders they contract to carry out work on their homes have a waste carrier licence.

“We also encourage residents to report any incidents of fly-tipping to us and though it can be a very difficult offence to trace, we thoroughly investigate every report we receive.”

Anyone with information that could help should call the council’s enforcement team on (01642) 528439.