MOTORISTS who leave their engines running while their cars are stationary are facing the prospect of fixed penalty fines.

Darlington Borough Council confirmed yesterday that its uniformed wardens now had the power to hand out the fines to drivers.

The idea was first mooted in December 2002, as part of efforts to crack down on vehicles polluting the environment.

However, officials have stressed that the £20 "no waiting" fines are a last resort.

Wardens will talk to motorists needlessly running their engines and, if they do not turn them off, a fine could be issued.

Police, bus and taxi operators in the town have been consulted on the proposals.