Zero tolerance warning to litter louts

The problems in Thirsk have escalated to such an extent that Hambleton District Council has announced the tough stance which will see on-the-spot fines issued to offenders.

Earlier this month an action plan was created to clean up Thirsk Market Place and replace damaged street signs and litter bins as well as targeting vandalism and graffiti.

The district council announced yesterday that fines would be issued to anyone caught littering of letting their dog foul the town’s streets.

Coun Gareth Dadd said: “Urgent action is needed to wipe out these problems and improve Thirsk, especially the town centre.

“We want to take a zero tolerance approach to litter and dog fouling – anyone caught will and should be fined.

“We hope that by working together these problems can be wiped out quickly making Thirsk a cleaner and brighter place for visitors and residents alike.”

Figures from the council have revealed that 37 fines were issued in Thirsk for litter offences in the last year, with four cases now awaiting court action.