A NORTH East council has issued a stark warning to fly-tippers – those who are caught will get their vehicle crushed.

In the first case of its kind in Middlesbrough, Environmental Flying Squad officers tracked down and destroyed a vehicle used in a brazen case of fly-tipping.

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston today vowed to take the fight to the fly-tippers as the battle against the blight on communities steps up a gear.

The culprit was caught on CCTV in July dumping bricks, rubble and carpets at the former Southlands Centre site on Ormesby Road.

Officers tracked him down before seizing and crushing his Peugeot Partner van - worth around £1,000 - using powers under the Environmental Protection Act.

The owner has been summonsed to appear at court for fly-tipping.

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Mr Preston said: "Fly-tipping blights communities and there is no excuse for it.

"This is a fantastic result that makes it crystal clear to the culprits that we're coming after them and hitting them where it hurts - in the pocket.

"I'd urge the public to keep reporting these incidents to us - we will take action and we will stamp out this scourge."

Members of the public can also call the Warden Hotline on 01642 228500 and ask to speak to a member of staff from the Environmental Flying Squad.

Anti-social behaviour, fly-tipping and dozens of other offences can also be reported here.

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