Milton Keynes resident fined £250 for dumping unwanted furniture and household goods on city estate

The action was taken this week by Milton Keynes Council as part of its campaign against fly tipping.

A council spokesman said: "Dumping rubbish, also known as fly tipping, is a serious criminal offence. If you dump your rubbish you can be fined or jailed. Not only is unsightly, but it's a threat to our local wildlife too."

In recent years, MK Council has prosecuted more than 30 people for fly tipping, resulting in fines totaling more than £25,000.

The spokesman added: "We know where the hot spots in MK are, and we use CCTV to tackle environmental crime. Our council vehicles are fitted with dash cams which means we can catch people littering out of their cars and other anti-social behaviour. Offenders can face prison sentences of up to five years or fines up to £50,000 for crimes like these.

"Everyone, including businesses have a responsibility to keep our local communities clean and safe. If you're paying someone, for example your builder, carpet fitter or tradesperson to take away your rubbish, always ask to see their waste carrier’s licence and know where your rubbish is taken.

"If someone fly tips your rubbish you could face a court appearance and a fine, even if you thought it was done in good faith."