Householders are being asked to check the credentials of businesses offering to clear their waste following a spate of fly-tipping in Wiltshire.

It has increased in Chippenham, Corsham and Calne and householders are reminded that if someone offers to take away their waste they should ask to see a valid Waste Carrier Licence.

If the waste is passed onto someone and they are not a licensed waste carrier the resident could be prosecuted under the Environmental Protection Act (1990). Householders are legally obliged to check whoever they give their waste to is authorised to collect, carry and dispose of it lawfully.

Check if someone is a registered waste carrier at www.gov.uk/ find-registered-waste-carrier or call 03708 506 506.