A CLAMPDOWN on littering and people putting their bin bags out too early has resulted in seven people appearing in court.

Stockton Borough Council carried out a number of spot checks and inspections during autumn last year.

The Teesside Magistrates' Court appearances have been justified by Coun Steve Nelson, the council cabinet member for housing and community safety.

He said: "Residents always tell us they want to live in a clean borough and the Care For Your Area Team do a fantastic job in keeping the streets clear of rubbish.

"Members of the public approve of this work being carried out and I hope the fines handed out by the magistrates will send out a clear message to other offenders that rubbish-dumping will not be tolerated by the council."

Paul Walker, of Castlereagh Road, Stockton, was found guilty in his absence of littering and fined £100 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £75 compensation.

Cheryl Smith, of Mansfield Avenue, Thornaby, pleaded guilty to dumping rubbish on September 17 and was fined £70 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £75 compensation.

Jonathan Bentham, of Thames Road, Peterlee, was found guilty in his absence of littering on September 13 and fined £100 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £70 compensation.

Michael Barnett, of Yarm Road, Stockton, was found guilty in his absence of littering on October 18 and was fined £100 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £70 compensation.

Sarah Jane Durham, of Teesdale Terrace, Thornaby, was found guilty in her absence of leaving bin bags out early and was fined £100 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £75 compensation.

Kelly Burton, of Dundas Street, Stockton, pleaded guilty to leaving bin bags out early and was fined £75 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £75 compensation.

Amanda Eddy, of Dundas Street, Stockton, was found guilty of leaving bin bags out early and was fined £100 and ordered to pay £75 costs and £75 compensation.

The council has issued a number of guidelines to advise people about their responsibility for putting rubbish out.

Residents are warned that refuse needs to be left out on the day of collection by 7am, and bins should be removed as soon as possible after they are emptied. People can be issued with a fixed penalty fine of £75 for leaving a wheeled bin in the street.

Anyone with queries about the service should contact Care For Your Area on 01642-391959.