Published: Wednesday 08th May 2019 | 3.09pm
Lynette Willdigg, from Cannock, was ordered to pay the fine by Newcastle Magistrates Court after discarding two cigarette ends on the car park at B&M and McDonalds, in Cannock.
On 17 September 2018, Ms Willdigg was witnessed littering two cigarette ends by two Enforcement Officers. Ms Willdigg was offered the opportunity to avoid court proceedings, by paying a Fixed Penalty of £75 – reduced to £50 if paid within ten days. Ms Willdigg failed to pay and as a consequence was prosecuted by the Council.
Ms Willdigg was found guilty by the Court and was fined £220, a victim surcharge of £30 and ordered to pay costs of £80.
Mike Walker, Cannock Chase Council’s Environmental Protection Manager said “If Ms Willdigg had paid the Fixed Penalty she would have avoided court proceedings and a criminal record which could have lifetime consequences.
“Even small items such as cigarette ends are litter and anyone caught dropping them can expect to receive a Fixed Penalty Notice in the first instance, with repeat offenders being likely to face prosecution.”
Each year the Council removes and disposes of 245 tonnes of waste from the streets of the district, much of it in the form of takeaway packaging and cigarette-related items, at a cost of £135,000 to Council tax payers.
Cannock Chase Council is committed to improving the environment for local communities, businesses and visitors to the area. Officers regularly undertake patrols across the district in an effort to tackle those responsible for littering and dog fouling.
Incidents can be reported by contacting the Council on 01543 462621, by emailing environmentalhealth@cannockchaseDC.gov.uk or via the website.