POLICE and environmental watchdogs have teamed up to combat fly-tipping and graffiti.

The clampdown has been launched by the police’s Tadcaster safer neighbourhood team and street scene at Selby District Council to tackle the problems in the Tadcaster area.

Fly-tipping is a specific criminal offence, which could result in a £200 fine or three months in prison. Police community supporrt officer (PCSO) Kelly Vause, one of the officers behind the initiative, said: “We recognise that this type of inconsiderate behaviour has a negative impact on the community and the environment and we will do everything possible to catch those responsible and eliminate the problem.

“We will be carrying out environment visual audits each month and ensuring the prompt removal of such waste. This will also help us locate any hot-spot areas and take positive action where necessary.

“In partnership with Selby District Council, we will be cracking down on offenders caught committing these types of offences.”

Anyone with information about fly-tipping should phone PC Liz Hartley or PCSO Vause on 0845 60 60 247, or the council on 01757 705101.