TEIGNBRIDGE District Council (TDC) is urging people to carry out checks before hiring a ‘man and van’ to dispose of unwanted waste as it tackles fly-tipping in the area.

Fly tipping is ‘unpleasant, illegal, and expensive for councils to clean up’ TDC has said.

But the council are reminding people how to help prevent it.

A spokesperson for TDC said: ‘First, if you have household waste to dispose of, check what you may take to your local recycling centre.

‘There's a full list on the website of what the Brunel Road Recycling Centre can accept free of charge, and which items you will need to pay to dispose of.

‘Second, if you hire a 'man and van' or waste company to take away your unwanted items, you must check that they are a registered waste carrier and not a rogue trader. Use our simple checklist:

• Ask to see a waste carriers licence. If you are unsure, you can check if a waste carrier is registered by checking the Environment Agency website or by calling them on 03708 506 506

• Take a note or photograph of the registration number of the vehicle that is being used to take your rubbish away.

• Ask where your rubbish is being taken, record any checks that you make and ask for a receipt or waste transfer note.

Third, please report any fly-tipping that you spot using our online reporting form and using the What3Words app to provide the exact location.