PEOPLE who dump rubbish in alleyways could face on-the-spot fines under an extended clean-up scheme.

The initiative follows complaints from people living in Middlesbrough's town centre about the amount of litter left in streets and alleys.

Middlesbrough Borough Council's public protection staff are now patrolling the streets and alleyways of the town and will serve £25 fines on people who ignore warnings and advice about dumping waste.

Twenty fixed penalty notices were issued last month and the council is extending its campaign.

Councillor Ken Hall said: "Rubbish is not only an eyesore, it can also be a danger to public health. That is why we're targeting the worst areas for immediate action.

"We're posting leaflets through residents' doors advising them of their refuse collection days, and the fact that rubbish should only be put out on the morning of the collection or the previous night at the earliest.

"There is no excuse for not keeping Middlesbrough's alleys and streets in a clean condition and we're taking a much harder line against people who blight their own neighbourhoods."