A COMMUNITY-backed CCTV scheme has helped land a brazen fly-tipper with a hefty court fine and criminal record.

The punishment is the latest success for the security system installed as part of the £1m lottery-funded project in North Ormesby.

Over the last two years more than 30 cameras - including two ‘talking’ cameras on the market place - have been installed in partnership with Middlesbrough Council, a total investment of more than £90,000.

And on November 19 last year, the system proved its worth when a removals van was picked up pulling into Stainton Street.

The silver and red vehicle - with the name JDT European LTD on the bonnet – was seen parking up, before the driver got out and dumped a black leather three-seater sofa against an alleygate.

The registration plate of the vehicle was clearly visible, enabling Middlesbrough Council environmental enforcement officer Chris Bacon to trace the Southampton-based company.

Following unsuccessful attempts to contact the company, a £400 fixed penalty notice was issued under the Environmental Protection Act

With no payment forthcoming, the case was brought before Teesside Magistrates who fined the company £5,000 and ordered them to pay a victim surcharge of £120 and costs of £382.50.

Big Local development officer Karen O’Hara said: “The CCTV system is not just a great deterrent, it’s also helping us catch those who think they are above the law."