Vehicles have been seized and fly-tippers slapped with tickets during a day of action targeting people who illegally dump their waste around Thanet.

Ten vehicles were stopped and searched, seven environmental notices and one fixed penalty notice issued, and two vehicles seized by Thanet District Council officers and police.

Enforcement officers will interview suspects and build cases in a bid to secure prosecutions.

Cllr Steve Albon, cabinet member for operational services, says the joint crackdown by police and the council continues to deliver great results.

"Dumping of waste by unlicensed carriers is something that costs council tax payers hundreds of pounds to clear," he said.

"It’s a criminal offence and we are determined to clamp down on it.

"We want to send a very clear message to those involved in the practice that action will be taken.

"It is also important that we educate residents and businesses on responsible waste disposal."

The action day is one of many that are now taking place across the county.

Each day requires extensive coordination and in depth preparation including the gathering of intelligence to support Thanet council's enforcement team with its duties.

Fly-tippers often target households via social media or local advertising, luring customers in with cheap rates to dispose of unwanted furniture, building rubble or garden waste.

But these unlicensed waste carriers often simply dump the waste wherever they can get away with it, including in country lanes.

Householders or small businesses found to be using criminals to dispose of their waste can be prosecuted by local authorities with fixed penalty notices of up to £400 per offence.

To prevent this, householders should check whether someone is licenced to carry waste by visiting the Environment Agency website below or calling 03708 506506.

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet