Litter-free zones are to be created which will see some commercial premises take responsibility for the rubbish generated by their customers.

Harrogate Borough Council has given approval for staff to serve litter notices under the Environmental Protection Act.

Cabinet member for public works, Julian Sturdy, said: "The act says we can create zones of up to 100 metres around premises such as food takeaways, nightclubs and cinemas and make the owners or operators of those premises be responsible for clearing up after their customers."