PEOPLE are being warned they face prosecution for throwing litter from vehicles.

Signs have gone up on approaches into Peterlee, in County Durham, alerting road-users that closed circuit television cameras are in operation, backed by patrolling environmental wardens.

Easington District Council, the Highways Agency and Autolink, which maintains the A19, are attempting to stem the amount of litter being thrown from vehicles, mainly on sliproads in and out of Peterlee.

Paul Penman, of the council, said: "The sliproads on and off the A19 at Peterlee have always been a particular problem in regard to drivers discarding litter from vehicle windows. After discussing the problem with the Highways Agency and Autolink, we have put up signs in an effort to deter people from littering.

"Hopefully, by warning people they could be prosecuted, this will not only reduce littering on the roundabout and sliproads, but send a message out preventing people littering on any of the district's roads."

The council recorded 1,104 incidents of littering, fly-tipping and dog fouling in the final nine months of last year, and issued 59 £50 fines. The public can report fly-tipping to the council on 0191-527 5040.