A former kebab shop owner has been rapped for failing to co-operate with an investigation into pollution.

Ozlem Karaoglan, who owned Taki’s Kebabs, did not attend court and was convicted by Folkestone magistrates on Monday in his absence.

He was charged with failing to comply with a duty imposed on him by a notice served under the Environment Act and fined £750.

It related to a Folkestone and Hythe District Council investigation into pollution.

Cllr Stuart Peall, portfolio holder for environment, said the case showed it was important to co-operate with environmental investigations.

He said: “We take very seriously our responsibilities to protect public health, keep the streets clean, and prevent pollution.

"We often have to carry out investigations into complaints or information we receive.

“It is important for people to realise that they have a legal requirement to co-operate if we serve an official notice asking for information.

“This case demonstrates that it’s no good ignoring it and hoping it will go away; in fact you could end up in court for failing to comply.”