RESIDENTS and businesses are reminded of the potential £75 fine they face if caught littering in the Forest.

The Forest Council says takeaway containers, rubbish thrown from vehicle windows and even cigarette butts are still classed as littering and could result in a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN).

Cllr Marrilyn Smart, cabinet member for environment, said: “The council takes littering very seriously. Not only is this practice illegal and anti-social but it clearly impacts on the environment in which we live and work and is potentially damaging to tourism in the area.

“Every year, we spend thousands of pounds picking up other people’s litter, which could be better spent on other services. Sadly the clean-up cost ultimately falls to the local taxpayer.”

Anyone caught dropping litter may be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) under the Clean Neighbourhoods Act. A FPN is an on-the-spot fine of £75, reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days. Failure to pay the fine may lead to criminal proceedings with a maximum fine on conviction of £2,500.

To report littering call the council on 01594 810000.