THE fight against fly-tipping has been stepped up after rubbish was found dumped at a North-East beauty spot.

Hartlepool Borough Council has issued an appeal for information following the discovery of bags containing rotting food, a bathroom suite and wooden cupboards weighing two tonnes at the entrance to the North Gare car park.

The area, known as Seaton Common, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as a local nature reserve.

Ian Burton, the council's environmental enforcement officer, said: "This was an example of fly-tipping at its worst, particularly given the environmental sensitivity of this area."

Conservationists fear that if the dumping continues it could cause lasting harm to the rare birds and animals that live there, including water voles.

Gina Balzai, a countryside warden, said: "This kind of activity cannot be tolerated. This area is very important for wildlife and we want people to respect it."

Members of the public are encouraged to report the fly-tippers by calling a hotline on (01429) 523 534.