A MAN has been ordered to pay thousands of pounds after pleading guilty to fly tipping in West Berkshire.

Mr David James, age 27 from Turbary Gardens, Tadley in Hampshire, pleaded guilty to fly tipping on the Ridgeway in West Berkshire, at Reading Magistrates Court on January 15, 2021.

Mr James was ordered to pay a total of £2447.78.

The Ridgeway is Britain's oldest road according to Historic UK.

Mr James was prosecuted following an investigation by officers from West Berkshire Council’s Waste Team.

The investigation commenced following a report and supporting evidence provided by a member of the public in October 2019.

The council said there was evidence that Mr James deposited or knowingly caused waste to be fly tipped on The Ridgeway near Compton, Berkshire contrary to section 33(1)(a) and section 33(6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

READ ALSO: How many people have died with Covid in my area?

West Berkshire Council’s Executive Member for the Environment, Steve Ardagh-Walter said: “This is a great result for West Berkshire, reaffirming that we do not tolerate fly tipping and that we will take strong action against those polluting our environment.

"It is also a testament to our residents who continue to add to our efforts to combat fly tipping by being our eyes and ears across the district, fighting this inexcusable criminal offence."

The council said whenever you are considering arranging for anyone other than your local council to collect any waste from your household, always follow the S.C.R.A.P. code.

This is explained below:

• Suspect: Beware of rogue waste carriers – reputable companies do not usually make direct approaches. If in any doubt as to whether someone is a legitimate waste carrier, do not allow them to take your waste.

• Check: Ask for their waste carrier registration details, and verify them by checking the online register or by calling 03708 506 506. Note down the registration number of the vehicle used to take your waste away.

READ ALSO: Helicopter above Reading today as police appeal for witnesses

• Refuse unsolicited offers to have any rubbish taken away. Always carry out your own research and choose who you wish to approach.

• Ask questions. Always ask what exactly is going to happen to your rubbish and seek evidence that it is going to be disposed of appropriately. A legitimate, professional waste carrier who wants your business should not object to being asked reasonable questions.

• Paperwork: Make sure you get a proper receipt containing the written information for your waste. This should include what has been removed, and where it will be going. Make sure the company or tradesman’s details are included.

The council said: "Please note that you may be liable for a fine or prosecution if your waste ends up being fly-tipped by a rogue trader.

"Protect yourself by using only approved waste carriers and following the steps outlined above."

Anyone wishing to report fly tipping can do so online at www.westberks.gov.uk/reportaproblem.