Serial fly-tipper must pay £4,857

David Howkins, of Wicklands Avenue, East Saltdean, pleaded guilty to two counts of dumping lorry loads of waste at the side of the road when he appeared at Hove Crown Court on Friday.

The court heard Howkins had run a bogus waste collection service since 2002, trading from his home under the name of Arrons Rubbish Clearance and 1st Action.

A spokesman for Lewes District Council said: 'He regularly advertised his businesses and in order to appear legitimate he registered as a licensed waste carrier with the Environment Agency.

'The rubbish he was paid to collect from customers did not make it to the landfill site but was dumped near Telscombe village.

'When his licence expired Mr Howkins did not renew it but continued to charge people to collect their waste, which he could no longer legally dispose of.'

Howkins was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service and give up his lorry to the council. He also had to pay them 4,857.23 in costs, including legal costs and those incurred in clearing up the land.

Judge Mallins, sentencing Howkins, said: 'These were two very nasty offences. They scarred the countryside and did untold damage to people's views.

'This was done deliberately and for money over a long period of time.'

The judge warned Howkins he faced prison if he did not comply with the order.

Cllr James MacCleary said: 'Howkins is a prolific fly-tipper. His actions have cost the local council tax payers thousands of pounds to investigate and to clear away, and I am glad the court recognises this and the impact his behaviour has had upon the environment and the local community.

'I hope this also sends a strong message to anyone else contemplating fly-tipping. 'Lewes District Council will not hesitate in taking tough action in every case.'