MOTORISTS who are parking illegally are being warned that a clampdown is being launched to tackle the problem.

Recently, residents and traders in Eston have raised concerns with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council about vehicles parking on double yellow lines and blocking pavements.

The authority is now taking action with a five-week blitz on offenders, targeting the High Street, West Street, William Street and Gladstone Street.

The areas near Yorkshire Bank and the Miners Arms pub, in the High Street, have been highlighted as particular hotspots.

Complaints have been lodged with the council's Greater Eston area committee, as well as with Steve Goldswain, cabinet member for community protection and an Eston ward councillor.

He said: "I have had reports of inconsiderate motorists parking on double yellow lines and blocking pavements which has, in turn, caused obstructions for parents with pushchairs, as well as people in wheelchairs.

"Illegal parking is something we, as a council, take a very dim view of and this crackdown underlines our robust approach to dealing with the problem."

As a result, community protection officers are stepping up patrols in Eston to send out the message that illegal parking will not be tolerated.

Anyone caught flouting the law could face a fixed penalty notice of £70, which is reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days.