Clampdown on tax dodgers has reduced car fire figures

And the clean up of the town's streets is cutting the number of deliberate vehicle fires, according to Cleveland Fire Brigade.

Untaxed and abandoned cars are believed to be regularly used in criminal activities and can be the centre of anti-social behaviour or simply smashed up and burnt out by arsonists.

Since the launch of Middlesbrough Council's campaign, in November last year, staff, fire and police officers have identified and removed hundreds of vehicles by working with the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

The fire brigade's arson reduction manager, George Crooks, said the pro-active approach to rid the streets of illegal cars has reduced vehicle arson figures in the town.

In 2001/02 there were 755 deliberate vehicle fires in Middlesbrough and last year that number dropped by 35 per cent to 492.

He said: "We are not only tackling and reducing the problem of arson in certain areas, we also get the feeling that the community is benefiting as they are no longer seeing abandoned cars being smashed up by local youths."

Motorists who are wheel-clamped for having no tax disc could face a statutory release fee. If not claimed within 24 hours, the vehicle will be towed away to a compound.

Unclaimed unlicensed vehicles, like the one removed yesterday from Garnet Street, Middlesbrough, can be crushed after 14 days. Owners also face prosecution, with fines of up to £1,000 for cars and motorbikes and up to £23,000 for a heavy goods vehicle.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member for public protection, said: "The scheme we operate is second to none and is a direct response to the concerns of the public. Any Middlesbrough resident who has a car that they can't maintain can call (01642) 726001 to make arrangements for free disposal."

A DVLA spokesman said: "People have to remember that most unlicensed vehicles have no MOT or insurance and should not be on the roads at all."