A fly-tipper who dumped a large volume of waste has been caught out by a secret camera.

Waste dumping is a recurring issue of the land next to the A299 between St Nicholas and Monkton roundabout, where the rubbish was left.

To help address this persistent problem Thanet District Council’s Streetscene team successfully obtained the council’s first court approved RIPA authorisation to install covert directed video cameras within a designated time period and location to catch the offenders.

On September 14 the load waste material was dumped at the site.

On investigation the council officers were able to trace the hired van used in the incident, and the driver through the vehicle rental business owner’s assistance.

Following an interview under caution, a fixed penalty notice of £400 was served on the offender and an early payment was received.

This is the first successful result through covert surveillance, with more cases currently being investigated.

Cllr Lin Fairbrass, cabinet member for community safety & environmental services said:“Fly-tipping is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"The council will pursue anyone guilty of dumping rubbish, and we will prosecute them.”

“We work hard to create a clean and welcoming environment for all those in Thanet and will enforce these efforts through all means available.

“Everyone needs to be aware that waste and rubbish must be disposed of legally.

"If you pay someone to take your rubbish away, you must use properly registered waste carriers otherwise your illegally fly-tipped waste could be traced back to you and you will be fined.”