Two tonnes of hazardous waste have been dumped in a Wiltshire forest - and will cost tens of thousands of pounds to remove.
A large amount of asbestos and other waste was left in Savernake Forest, just off the A4 near Marlborough, and discovered by a member of the public.
The Forestry Commission, who own the land where the fly-tip took place, have now been left with a bill for the removal of the rubbish.
This will be carried out by a specialist contractor, and it is estimated the safe removal of the asbestos will cost tens of thousands of pounds.
Wiltshire Council are now appealing for help from members of the public to track down the culprit and have offered a High Street shopping voucher, worth up to £200, for any information that leads to a conviction or fixed penalty notice.
Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport and street scene, said: “It’s appalling that someone should dump this dangerous waste in a Wiltshire forest, so we’d appeal to anyone who has any information to let us know in confidence. If their information leads to a conviction, they will receive a reward of up to £200.
“We’re Targeting Fly-tippers here in Wiltshire, and if we can find who has dumped this rubbish, we will be taking legal action against these environmental criminals.”
The other items of rubbish found at the scene include a tent and it is believed the fly-tip originated in the Swindon area, as some of the waste is contained in Swindon Borough Council branded bin bags.
Cllr Thomas added that anyone who recently had asbestos removed from their property may have information that could help their investigation.
She said: “Have you had any asbestos removed from your property recently or know of anyone who has? Do you know anyone who had asbestos in their roof removed?
“If so, you may have information we need to help us catch these environmental criminals.
“We suspect that the person who had the work done on their property would have expected the waste to be removed legally, as most of the asbestos is wrapped in plastic, so there has been some care to remove it safely from the property.”
Anyone who recognises the rubbish or witnessed anything is encouraged to report it via MyWilts online reporting or by calling 03004560100.
The council emphasised that all information will be treated with strict confidence.
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