A CAMPAIGN to take non-roadworthy and unwanted vehicles off Hartlepool's streets has been hailed a success only weeks after being launched.

More than 50 vehicles have been removed free of charge since an amnesty by Hartlepool Borough Council's environmental action team began in the summer.

The team was set up with a wide-ranging brief to clean up the town.

The issue of end-of-life cars was identified as a major concern.

Environmental action manager Craig Thelwell said: "When we launched the campaign we did not really know what to expect.

"We knew there was a problem with old, unwanted vehicles, but we were not sure just how big the problem was.

"Old cars are often left on driveways or parked in the street, with people unable to get rid of them, maybe because they are broken down or have failed their MoTs."

Falling scrap metal values have also contributed to the problem.

Mr Thelwell said: "Sometimes vehicles end up being dumped and then they become an arson risk or a danger to children.

"In other cases, they are simply left to rust away and soon become eyesores blighting the local environment.

"We are delighted with the impact of the amnesty but believe there are still more cars out there which need to be removed."

The council is working with South Bank contractor Centex, which removes the cars and disposes of them.

To arrange for the removal of an unwanted car, owners are asked to contact the council on (01429) 523333.