Driver fined hundreds for dropping cigarette ends and smoking in a works vehicle

A man who was witnessed smoking in a works van and discarding the cigarette ends from the van window has been fined hundreds of pounds.

Sean Townley from Glascote in Tamworth was witnessed smoking three cigarettes whilst he sat in his works van outside McDonalds on Church Street in Cannock, each of which he dropped from his open window onto the car park before driving away.

Mr Townley was issued with two fixed penalty notices but failed to pay them.

Mr Townley did not enter a plea to Newcastle Magistrates Court and on 5 February was ordered to pay fines of £440 and £220, having been found guilty in his absence.  The court also added prosecution costs of £125 and a victim surcharge of £44.

Councillor John Preece, Environment Portfolio Leader said “The Council is committed to a cleaner, healthier and safer District.  It is essential for members of the public to understand that even small items such as cigarette ends are litter.  They look terrible on our streets and cost money to clear away.

Anyone found dropping litter can expect to receive a fixed penalty notice of £75, which is reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days of its issue. By paying the fixed penalty offenders would also avoid prosecution and the risk of getting a criminal record.  The Council would have no hesitation in bringing cases before Court for those offenders that choose not to pay the fixed penalty fine.

I hope this prosecution sends a clear message to all members of the public that the Council takes these matters very seriously and does not tolerate smoking in prohibited places or littering of any kind; anyone witnessed littering can expect to receive a fixed penalty notice.”

Since April 2017 the Council has issued over 60 fixed penalties for littering and this is the second occasion in five weeks that such a case has been before a Magistrates Court.

Incidents can be reported by contacting Cannock Chase Council on 01543 462621 or by emailing environmentalhealth@cannockchasedc.gov.uk or via the website www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk