A man has been fined for dumping rubbish at a beauty spot - as the council vows to take fly-tipping seriously, writes Jennifer Mulcahey.

Borys Peplinski, 28, committed fly-tipping offences at Hartland Moor, Wareham, and at Dullar Lane in Lytchett Matravers.

Following investigations by Purbeck District Council enforcement officers in 2017, it was established that Peplinski removed waste from two households and failed in his duty of care in relation to that waste.

He was summoned to appear in court in 2019 but didn't turn up. He was arrested subsequently, and appeared in court on Friday, January 24. He was unrepresented and assisted by a Polish interpreter.

Peplinski, of Bournemouth, pleaded guilty at Poole Magistrates Court to the offences under section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

He was fined £300 for each offence, plus costs of £1,285 and victim surcharge of £60.

Dorset Council’s enforcement and legal teams worked together to bring the case to court.

Read more: Countryside is not a free-for-all tip says CLA

Cllr Anthony Alford, portfolio holder for Customer, Community and Regulatory Services, said: “I am pleased this case has been brought to a conclusion. Fly-tipping not only blights our countryside and local neighbourhoods, but costs time and money to remove – tax payer’s money that would be better spent elsewhere.

“I would like to remind residents they should only use licensed carriers to dispose of their excess waste. They should also obtain all the necessary paperwork to show that they have followed correct procedures.

“Our enforcement team takes fly-tipping seriously. Where there is enough evidence, we will attempt to trace and prosecute anyone found to be fly-tipping on public land.”

If you see fly-tipping, make a note of where it is, take a picture if you can, and note down details.

You can report it by using Dorset Council's online form or calling the council on 01305 221040 . Never touch the waste or confront fly-tippers.

You can check that a waste carrier is registered on the Environment Agency's website or by calling 037808 506 506.