Fly-tippers are being targeted in an operation across Middlesbrough.

Random roadside checks are to be carried out today on vans or lorries carrying builders' rubble, tyres or general waste.

The stop and search exercise is being carried out by Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Police and the Vehicle and Operator Services Inspectorate (VOSI).

The roadside checks mark the beginning of a campaign which will run throughout the year.

Anyone found carrying any kind of controlled waste without a licence could face prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000.

Councillor Bob Kerr, executive member with responsibility for the environment, said: "Our experience is that people who are carrying waste materials of any kind without a licence are the ones most likely to be planning to dump it somewhere.

"Fly tipping like this costs the council taxpayer more than £1m a year and there is absolutely no reason why that money should be paid clearing up after someone when it could be used to make the town cleaner, greener and more attractive instead.

"A waste disposal licence from the Environment Agency costs only £130, but the maximum fine for illegally transporting waste - which we will certainly urge the courts to impose - is £5,000.

"So the message is don't take short cuts, do it right or it could cost you a lot of money."