A HOTLINE has been set up to speed up reporting of illegal fly-tippers.

The phone line has been launched for use by anyone who sees unscrupulous operators dumping waste and rubbish in County Durham.

It is available during office hours and all calls will be treated in confidence.

Brian Myers, the county council cabinet member for waste management, said: "Illegal fly-tipping at roadsides and quiet country lanes costs the county council, and the council tax payer, around £250,000 a year to clear up and dispose of the mess.

"Now, people can call the hotline number if they see someone fly-tipping.

"If possible, they should make a note of the time, the date, the place and the registration number of any vehicle being used, and a description of the people involved, to help us track them down."

The hotline is operated by the county council with the Environment Agency and five of the county's seven district councils, Chester-le-Street, Derwentside, Durham, Sedgefield and Wear Valley.

Residents are asked to contact their respective district council for disposal of illegal waste.

The hotline is part of a drive by the county council that has also seen a permit scheme introduced at its household waste recycling centres.

Drivers of all vans, pick-ups and trailers now need a permit to access sites, although family saloons and estate cars, including four-wheel drive vehicles, are exempt from the scheme.

Permits were brought in after it was found up to 15 per cent of all items taken to compounds was trade and commercial waste.

The hotline for reporting illegal dumping is 0191-383 5595.