Fly-tip stunt highlights criminal dumping of waste

Police have staged a fake fly-tip at a Devon beauty spot to warn people about the rising problem of criminally dumped waste.

Visitors walking through Haldon Forest Park near Exeter were met with piles of rubbish including a mattress, microwave, chair and washing machine.

The scene was not real waste but part of a planned awareness event led by Devon and Cornwall Police with councils, Forestry England and environmental groups.

The aim was to show how serious fly-tipping has become and encourage people to report it.

Rural Affairs Officer PC Clarke Orchard said: "Not only is fly tipping an eye sore, but with it comes a wealth of environmental consequences and financial implications; all of which cause harm in our communities."

He described the crime as selfish and warned it affected everyone, from families enjoying green spaces to farmers and landowners dealing with costly clean-ups.

He added: "Whether you report fly-tipping when you see it or dispose of your waste correctly, we all have an important part to play in tackling this issue.

"If you fly-tip, your actions can have huge implications on wildlife, waterways and the wider community, including farmers and landowners. So please, stop and think twice."

Environment Agency officer Reece Chadwick said: "Waste crime adversely affects communities, undermines legitimate waste businesses and damages the environment."

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