FLYTIPPERS and those who illegally carry waste were targeted during a crackdown in Purbeck last week.

Police, Purbeck District Council officials and representatives from the Environment Agency carried out early morning stops on the A31 near Bere Regis during the operation.

Vans, lorries and flatbed trucks were checked for their loads. Drivers were also asked for licences for carrying and collecting waste.

A number of people were dealt with for offences including having no insurance and not being in possession of the correct licence.

Councillor Bill Pipe said: “Most people go about their business safely and legally. However there are unscrupulous people on our roads, some carrying waste that is later fly-tipped, causing a blight on our landscape and taxpayers’ money to remove.

“Officers are keen to crack down on the number of unlicensed waste carriers or vehicles transporting controlled waste as these are linked to fly-tipping, burglary and other environmental crime.”

PC Claire Dinsdale of Dorset Police’s rural crime team said: “Fly-tipping is a serious concern for many farmers and landowners who are left with huge clear up costs if a fly tip occurs on their land.”

Dorset residents are asked to research any organisation which offers to dispose of waste on their behalf.

Anyone who spots fly-tipping in progress should contact police on 999. Fly-tipped rubbish should be reported to the council.