Fly-tipping appeal after fridges dumped by river

A dog walker found fly-tipped fridges and car parts on the banks of the River Trent between Newark and Farndon.

Mr Jeff Rice, who lives in Chesterfield but comes to the area to visit his parents, was walking their pet on Sunday at around 10.30am when he saw the waste.

“There were two piles — one of white goods and one of car parts, including a registration plate,” said Mr Rice.

“I visit my parents every couple of months and it seems like every other time I walk their dog I find some sort of fly-tipping along the riverbank.

“It’s unscrupulous people not using facilities like council tips.”

In November 2016, Mr Rice discovered fly-tipped waste near the River Trent at Long Lane, Farndon. On that occasion it contained asbestos, which forced Newark and Sherwood District Council to employ specialist contractors to dispose of it safely.

The waste found on Sunday is not thought to have contained asbestos and is due to be cleared today.

A spokesman for the council said: “If you are out in the district we would ask you to report any such activity that appears to be suspicious.

“If you witness someone fly-tipping please make a note of any vehicle registrations etc.

“Anyone convicted of such an offence could be fined up to a maximum of £50,000 or face five years in prison.”

Fly-tipping can be reported by calling 01636 650000.