A COLEFORD man, who failed to dispose of his waste responsibly, has been ordered by a court to pay £1,275.

Thomas Lee Andrews, 29, of St John’s Street, who initially pleaded not guilty to the offence, failed to attend the trial at Stroud Magistrates’ Court in August to hear the charges brought against him by the district council.

Magistrates heard that Mr Andrews failed to take all suitable measures to secure the transfer of his waste to an authorised person. His failure led to the waste being fly-tipped. Ultimately the investigation and clean-up costs were borne by the local tax payer.

Magistrates found the defendant guilty.

Mr Andrews was fined £250 for the offence, ordered to pay £1,000 in costs, plus a £25 victim surcharge.

Councillor Marrilyn Smart, district council Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We would remind residents to check that waste operators are fully-licensed before using their services. The council will continue to actively pursue waste crime and investigate and prosecute where there is sufficient evidence.”