HUNDREDS of old rubber tyres have been dumped on private land used by Hutton Rudby football club - and the hard-up club might have to pay for their removal.

A landowner has requested that the tyres be removed or the football club will no longer be able to play there next season. The land is next to the Ranch House social club, between Hutton Rudby and Stokesley.

Even though the football club and parish councillors know of at least one suspect, the Environment Agency and police cannot take enforcement action because of insufficient evidence.

The football club has little money and would have to raise funds to pay removal costs. Its finances have been hit through cancelled fixtures, because of the foot-and-mouth crisis. Players' subscriptions have dried up.

An estimated 600 car and lorry tyres have been left in huge piles on the land. Because it is privately owned, Hambleton council is not required to collect the tyres. Unless circumstances change, the problem will have to be resolved between the club and a landowner. Coun Simon Whitfield, speaking on behalf of the football club, said: "I'm really annoyed about this.

"The club hasn't got any money. We're looking at costs of £300. The club could fold because of this. We will have to hold fundraising events.

"We have fixed the fence and gate to stop further access for vehicles," he added.

"There has also been some fly tipping at Potto and Middleton on Leven."

The club enjoyed a good relationship with the landowner, Mr Mel I'Anson, he stressed.

Mr I'Anson, who lives in Great Ayton, told the D&S Times: "The first load of tyres was dumped about a year ago. The football club uses a few tyres for training but it looks like somebody got rid of a load.

"I had a word with the Environment Agency and Simon Whitfield. He said he would try to sort it out. The club want to be back here again next season. They only pay a small rent and say they cannot afford to pay for removal.

"Whoever saw the dumping will not give a statement, so the Environment Agency cannot do anything."

TURN TO PAGE 3