Residents who are regularly faced with fly-tipping say they have now seen the worst case of it in years.

A lorry-load of rubbish was dumped in Augustine Road, Minster, last Wednesday evening.

It was left in the unmade section of the road, near its junction with Minster Drive, which locals say has become overgrown.

The pile is made up of mostly household waste and includes televisions, children’s toys, chairs and even beds.

Homeowner Richard Barton says it was left between 7.15pm and 9.45pm as he went out and it was there when he got back.

The 65-year-old, who has been a resident there for 32 years, says it’s not unusual for fly-tipping to happen in the area.

He added: “Because it’s quite overgrown you can’t always see them doing it so they get away with dumping it.

“I’m not very happy about it – they are just scum really, the people that do this.

“It does happen quite often but it’s never been like this before.”

He says in the past there has even been asbestos dumped, which has yet to be removed, as well as cars.

Residents are concerned the area may become infested with rats if the rubbish is not removed soon.

And 90-year-old Eric Lawson, who also lives in Augustine Road, said the incident last week was so bad it was stopping cars from getting past as it was right in the middle of the narrow road.

A Swale council spokesman said the incident is being investigated and its contractors would clear the rubbish.

Wardens will also review the area to see if a sign can be installed to try to deter fly-tippers.

They said: “Fly-tipping is an offence which carries a penalty of up to £50,000, and a prison sentence.

“We are committed to catching fly-tippers and the offences we have recently put through the courts are a good example of that.

“If anyone has any information about those responsible for fly-tipping, call 01795 417850.

“Help us tackle those who blight our community.”

It can also be reported online at www.swale.gov.uk