Two County Durham residents have been prosecuted and fined after failing to remove waste from their properties.

A woman has been prosecuted and fined £1,034 for failing to remove waste from her property on South Street in Spennymoor.

A man has also been prosecuted and fined £1,034 after failing to remove waste from his property on Craddock Street in Spennymoor.

The Northern Echo: Craddock Street, Spennymoor property

Neighbourhood Wardens served both with Community Protection Warning (CPW) and said they gave notice allowing her to tidy they yard – but failed to comply.

Images released by wardens show the South Street property littered with carrier bags, fast food wrappers, and other waste.

The Northern Echo: South Street, Spennymoor property

Images also show the Craddock Street property show various bags filled with waste left outside.

A Durham County Council spokesperson said: “We take action against those who leave waste in yards or gardens in order to improve areas for all residents and visitors, not only is it unsightly but it can be a source of harbourage for vermin and pests but it can also be a target for arson.

“To report any issues of waste in yards and gardens please call 03000 260000 or use the on line reporting system.”