A CLAMPDOWN on allotment bonfires in Hartlepool has been launched amid health concerns.

Council officials are working with Cleveland Fire Brigade and Cleveland Police to raise awareness of the problems created by the fires.

They are warning plotholders across the town that they could face eviction if they ignore guidelines on the burning of garden waste and other rubbish.

Helen Beaman, senior environment officer at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "A lot of allotment sites are close to residential areas, so fires can have serious implications for the health of local people, particularly children suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma."

There were seven allotment fires last year and a further five fires have been recorded so far this year.

Peter Bradley, Cleveland Fire Brigade's community liaison officer, added: "The hourly cost of an appliance attending an incident is about £254, so these incidents have cost the brigade more than £3,000.

"This is a waste of resources that could be put to a much better use, particularly in the current economic climate."

Inspector Mick Brown, of Hartlepool Police, said: "People can continue to expect increased patrols in allotments sites by our neighbourhood officers and our partners, who will take action if it is required."

Allotment bonfires are only allowed during the last week of March and the first two weeks of November to coincide with the start and end of the main growing season.