Path used as a rubbish dump

FLY-TIPPERS are dumping rubbish on a Soham footpath used by families and the elderly to walk into the town centre. The path which runs from Guntons Close to Station Road has become regularly covered with garden rubbish, and dog-owners are allowing their p

FLY-TIPPERS are dumping rubbish on a Soham footpath used by families and the elderly to walk into the town centre.

The path which runs from Guntons Close to Station Road has become regularly covered with garden rubbish, and dog-owners are allowing their pets to mess there.

Residents fear that some of the culprits could be their neighbours who use the footpath as a rubbish dump rather than putting garden clippings out for collection in the specially-provided brown sacks.

Disabled Arthur Keane, 66, who lives with his wife, Greta, in nearby West Drive, said: "It's so irresponsible. They can't be bothered to put their rubbish out for collection.

"They have been dumping hedge trimmings and grass cuttings on the footpath."

Mr Keane said despite calls to East Cambridgeshire District Council no action has been taken.

A council spokesman said: "We are investigating this matter and speaking to all the parties concerned."

n Fly-tipping throughout Cambridgeshire has increased by 50 per cent over the last year and between 2005 and 2006 cost more than £665,000 to clear.

Last year, only two people were prosecuted despite 11,978 incidents being recorded.

South East Cambridgeshire MP Jim Paice said: "There are powers available to deal with fly-tipping and they should be used more often to reverse the upward trend in illegal waste dumping."

Fly-tipping carries the risk of a fine up to £50,000 or six months in prison.