On arrival, the Officer found three single mattresses, a large amount of bathroom material, wooden tiles, cardboard and other rubbish. There was also some asbestos in the waste, which led the Officer to request urgent attention from the Community Protection team to remove the items within 24 hours.

The waste was dumped in this rural location in mid-November under cover of darkness, either side of a public bridleway. Despite a thorough investigation by our enforcement officers, no evidence has so far been found to link the rubbish to those responsible. Any members of the public who have any information on this incident are urged to email: prow@herefordshire.gov.uk

Councillor Dan Hurcomb, Cabinet Member for Local Engagement and Community Resilience at Herefordshire Council, said: 

This was a despicable act and we are disappointed that so far we have been unable to find out who is responsible. However, we will pursue any new lines of enquiry with the aim of securing the evidence we need to bring about a prosecution. 

Herefordshire is a beautiful county with spectacular countryside, tranquil landscapes and awe-inspiring views. Fly-tipping spoils this for all of us and will not be tolerated. Those responsible should be aware that we will take robust enforcement action against anyone who fly-tips in the county – including the use of resources such as CCTV cameras – to bring them to justice.

Recent cases of successful fly-tipping prosecutions undertaken by council enforcement officers include a husband and wife who were fined over £1,500 for dumping a caravan in a beauty spot near Ross-on-Wye, and a Bromyard woman who was ordered to pay nearly £1,000 for long-standing waste and anti-social issues. 

Members of the public are encouraged to report any incidences of fly tipping via the council’s webpage.