A FLY-TIP containing a children's toy car, a scooter and a variety of other items was left discarded near a New Forest lane.

An appeal has been launched by New Forest District Council (NFDC) to track down the culprit who trashed the area in Stem Lane, New Milton, over the weekend.

Councillor Alison Hoare, NFDC portfolio holder for environment and regulatory services, said: "We have noticed an increase in general fly-tipping in the district during the current necessary restrictions. Some is well meaning – such as leaving bags outside a recycling site or charity shop, or giving it to someone else to dispose of who isn’t a registered waste carrier.

"We’d like to remind everyone that fly-tipping is a crime and it’s your duty to make sure your waste is disposed of properly.

"You could face an unlimited fine if you’re responsible for illegally dumped waste.

"We know it is difficult at the moment, but where possible, please hold on to your waste until you are able to safely and responsibly dispose of it, at a registered site or through a registered waste carrier. You can check their waste carrier’s license at hants.gov.uk/fly-tipping."

Anyone who witnesses fly-tipping or has information about fly-tips in the New Forest should report it by emailing enforcement@nfdc.gov.uk.