Seven smokers receive fines over littering offences

Another who littered Southwick Green has also been fined.

South Tyneside Magistrates' Court heard evidence from Sunderland City Council on Wednesday 26 May.

In each incident a Neighbourhood Enforcement Officer witnessed the defendant depositing a cigarette end onto the ground and walking away.

Each person was issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice of £150 for the offence of littering but failed to pay the penalty charge despite several reminder letters. Due to this, the matters were referred for legal proceedings.

Louie Breeds, of Malings Close, failed to attend court and the case was proven in his absence. Mr Breeds was issued with a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235

Angela Carney, of Anglesey Square, pleaded guilty by post with mitigation. Ms Carney was issued with a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £150

Gavin Joyce, of Norfolk Street, failed to attend court and the case was proven in his absence. Mr Joyce was issued a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235

Bethany Minchell, of Cairo Street, failed to attend court and the case was proven in her absence. Ms Minchell was issued a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235

Tamarra Cobb, of St Leonard Street, failed to attend court and the case was proven in her absence. Ms Cobb was issued a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235

Stacey Hedley, of Percy Street, Jarrow, failed to attend court and the case was proven in her absence. Ms Hedley was issued a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235

Courtney Gardiner, of Prestbury Road, pleaded guilty by post, Ms Gardiner was issued with a £150 fine, Victim Surcharge of £34 and costs of £235.

Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Claire Rowntree, said: "On behalf of thousands of Sunderland residents, there is a very simple message here: people should not be treating our city streets and neighbourhoods with such disregard.

"Everybody must take responsibility for disposing of their litter and waste legally and appropriately, including cigarette ends.

"We are continuing to take enforcement action against people we catch dropping litter. If you are littering our city you can face a penalty notice and if you ignore this, you will face court."

Report litter and fly-tipping by visiting https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-litter