An investigation has been launched into fly-tipping near a County Durham industrial estate.

Durham County Council (DCC) are appealing for more information after a fly-tip was found on the public bridleway near Drum Industrial Estate in Chester-le-Street on May 2.

The council have confirmed the waste was fly-tipped and then set alight.

They added the fire service attended the incident.

The Northern Echo: An investigation has been launched into a fly-tipping incident near Drum Industrial Estate in

A DCC spokesperson said: “We are asking anyone who witnessed this incident or has information about a fly tip that has appeared on the public bridleway near Drum Industrial Estate in Chester le Street.

“The waste was fly-tipped then set on fire, which the Fire Service had to attend.

“If you have any information that will assist with our enquiries, we ask that you contact us by phoning 03000 260000 or email help@durham.gov.uk.”

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Wardens have since carried out patrols of the area along with High Handenhold Community Fire Station and their Anti Social Behaviour Patrol unit on May 3.

A spokesperson for the council added: “Deliberate fires put extra pressure on the fire service, diverting them from other jobs which can put lives in danger!

“We encourage the public to report any issues of Environmental Crime or Anti Social Behaviour to the Neighbourhood Warden team on 03000 260 000 or by visiting here"