A PIONEERING town has welcomed a Government crackdown on the problem of abandoned cars.

The new measures include moving dumped cars within 24 hours rather than posting a seven days removal notice, using DVLA powers to clamp and remove unlicensed vehicles and tightening registration procedures to ensure owners are tracked down and prosecuted.

Announcing the moves yesterday, Transport Secretary Stephen Byers said: "Dumped cars are an increasing eyesore on our streets and a real danger to children who are attracted to them as playgrounds.''

Councillor Ken Walker, leader of Middlesbrough Borough Council, said last night: "In Middlesbrough we have been very active in dealing with nuisances caused by abandoned cars, which can be an eyesore and a danger.

"We welcome any new powers which will support our efforts to create a cleaner and safe environment.''

In spring, the council launched a scheme to crush unwanted cars after the numbers dumped in the borough rose from 95 in 1996 to 503 in 1999. The council said it would crush cars not claimed within a week of being found and bill owners £160 for disposal of their vehicle.

An amnesty on untaxed, abandoned cars and plans for a tip were announced in August as part of a £6m, three-year scheme to clean up the South Bank and Grangetown areas of Teesside, administered by Redcar and Cleveland Council.