FLY-TIPPING incidents across Warrington have more than tripled since 2012 – with the figure totalling 1,200 last year.

The latest Government statistics have revealed the significant increase as council bosses call on the public for their 'support' in combating the issue.

The data shows the number of fly-tipping incidents in the town in 2012-13 was 378, 539 in 2013-14, 530 in 2014-15 and 1,200 in 2015-16.

Since last April, 93 fixed penalty notices (FPN) have been issued to litter louts in the town.

Anybody caught littering can be hit with a £75 fine, which is reduced to £50 if paid early – the same as before the country's new legislation was implemented.

However, despite a number of prosecutions for fly-tipping and the non-payment of penalties, no £200 FPNs have been handed out since last May.

Despite admitting serious concerns over the number of fly-tipping incidents in 2015-16, the council said the 1,200 figure is made up of some 'side waste', which includes bin bags left outside of residents' homes.

Linda Smallthwaite, the authority's investigations and enforcement manager, admits cuts are making it more difficult for her team.

But she is confident of successfully tackling the issue blighting the borough's streets, with the help of the public.

She said: "We need the support of residents to help tackle this blight on our town.

"Communities are the key to everything – without them we will struggle to get the prosecutions we need.

"If residents have an issue, they not only need to let us know who is responsible, they need to support us in dealing with it.

"If they have any issues related to fly-tipping then they need to alert us as soon as possible and support us in tackling fly-tippers.

"We need to galvanise the public to really get them on board to help provide us with the intelligence we need.

"There are cuts and it does make our job harder – but, with the support of our residents, we will prosecute the perpetrators.

"Ultimately, prosecutions are about persuading that person to behave differently.

"We need residents to come forward and be willing to provide information on the record.

"Without witness statements from the public we can be limited in the formal action we can take in court."

The council is offering a 'bulky waste collection' service for residents.

White goods, including fridges and freezers, are free, while other items, such as furniture and small electrical appliances, cost £20 for up to three items.

Extra items cost £6.67 each but the authority is only able to collect five items per visit.

To book a collection or for further information call 443322.