ALLOTMENT holders are being reminded they face eviction or prosecution if they flout the rules relating to open fires on their plots.

Hartlepool Borough Council's environmental enforcement team members will be carrying out spot-checks throughout the year, including at evenings and weekends.

The authority is also working with Cleveland Fire Brigade and allotment holders are being asked to ensure that lit bonfires are never left unattended, because fire crews have a duty to respond to unattended fires.

Helen Beaman, the council's environment co-ordinator, said: "Such call-outs are a drain on the fire brigade's resources. Leaving fires unattended is also a serious breach of allotment tenancy rules and will result in an immediate notice to quit being issued.

"With Bonfire Night fast approaching, we would also urge all tenants to help prevent arson attacks on their plots by not storing combustiblematerials such as wood, fuel, chemicals and animal bedding."

Residents who have concerns about bonfires on allotments can call the allotment team on 01429-523406 or go to allotments@hartlepool. gov. uk More information about the rules relating to bonfires and allotments can be found at hartlepool.gov.uk/allotments