Suspended jail sentence for Swallownest fly-tipper

A FLY-TIPPER who caused “significant environmental damage” by dumping waste near his home has been given a suspended sentence.

Patrick Morris (50) of Gray Avenue, Swallownest, admitted at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court to five charges of depositing controlled waste without an environmental permit in August.

He was given a 26-week suspended jail term, suspended for 18 months.

Morris was given a custodial sentence because the offending was so serious and was committed over a long period of time.

He dumped items ranging from tyres, pallets, household waste and a horsebox and built a bonfire out of some of his waste and set it alight.

He was ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity and 100 hours of unpaid work.

Morris was ordered to pay £2,490 in compensation and £600 costs.

He also admitted transporting household and construction waste at Norwood Metals without permission but was given no separate penalty.

Tom Smith, RMBC’s assistant director for community safety and street scene, said: “We strongly advise members of the public to be very cautious when choosing a contractor to remove waste.

“Always make sure that anyone you ask to help remove rubbish from your property can do so legally and has a valid waste carrier’s licence.

“We recommend that residents insist on seeing the company’s licence number.”

Check here to check if a contractor holds a licence.