The city council has successfully prosecuted a fly tipper who covered a Gloucester car park with illegally dumped rubbish.

Council officers discovered an “extremely large amount” of waste covering almost the entire area of the car park, off Matson Lane.

The parking area is opposite a primary school and used by visitors to nearby Matson Park.

Officers were acting on complaints from residents, and carried out an extensive operation to gather evidence, which led to the successful prosecution this month.

The individual pleaded guilty, and was fined £500, plus costs of £300 and victim surcharge of £50. The sentencing took into account his financial and personal circumstances.

Cllr Richard Cook, cabinet member for the environment at Gloucester City Council, said: “We take the issue of fly tipping very seriously. This selfish act robs the local community of decent and safe public spaces, and the clear-up operation takes up time and resources that could be spent on improving local facilities. It will not be tolerated.

“I would like to remind residents to check that anyone who disposes of waste on their behalf has a waste carriers’ license – otherwise they could end up being fined.”