Two vans have been seized by police as part of a crackdown on fly-tipping in Maidstone.

Officers from the Rural Task Force also issued a number of fines to drivers during a day of action to tackle the illegal movement and disposal of waste.

The operation took place on Tuesday and was assisted by enforcement officers from Maidstone Borough Council.

In total 10 vehicles were stopped for checks, resulting in fines totalling £900.

In King Street a Ford Transit was seized and the driver slapped with a fine, after it was found to have no licence for carrying or transferring waste.

A Renault Master van was also impounded after it was stopped in Loose Road and found to be uninsured.

Sergeant Darren Walshaw said: "Fly tipping is a large scale issue which blights both rural areas and our town centres.

"It is often the result of organised criminality that causes considerable distress to many people.

"We are continuing to work closely with our partners, including the local authority, to ensure those engaged in fly tipping face the consequences of their actions, but we also need help from local residents.

"If you are paying anyone to remove waste from your home, for example as a result of building work, always ensure you check that the person is licensed to do so.

"Remember to report anything suspicious by calling 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress."