A DISTRICT council has stepped up its campaign against litter bugs, dog fouling and fly tipping by employing an extra enforcement officer.

Wear Valley District Council has recruited the officer to patrol the streets and issue litter bugs with on-the-spot fines in a bid to clean up the neighbourhood.

In the past month, 15 fixed penalty notices have been issued and the culprits forced to pay £50 for failing to clean up after their dogs or dropping rubbish.

The council hopes the fines will act as a deterrent and the new officer will encourage residents to take pride in their community and keep it tidy.

It is warning residents that if fines are not paid within 14 days, offenders will be taken to court and face charges of up to £1,000 for dog fouling and £20,000 and imprisonment for fly tipping.

The council is also clamping down on residents who leave refuse bags outside too early before collection following complaints that bin bags are being ripped open by wildlife or loose pets and attracting vermin.

Rubbish waiting to be disposed of should be placed out for collection no earlier than 8pm the evening before or on the morning of collection.

Enforcement officer Debra Hibbitts said: "We hope that word will spread about our efforts and that in the future we will see a noticeable improvement in the appearance of Wear Valley making it a better place to live and work."

Complaints about fly tipping or refuse dumping can be made on (01388) 761617.