West Lindsey District Council took legal action against two men after they failed to clear rubbish from their gardens.

Cllr. Malcolm Parish, Conservative (Welton Ward), Chairman of the Prosperous Communities Committee at the Council said:

"Allowing rubbish to build-up in gardens is not acceptable and is not fair on your neighbours. We’re always willing to work with people and provide advice if they need it. But, when they repeatedly ignore that advice and their responsibilities we can and we will take action."

Mr. Alex Bratton, of Grey Street, Gainsborough was found guilty of failing to clear domestic waste and household items from his garden. A complaint was made to the council on 16th May 2011, that there was a build up of household waste and rubbish in the garden. The council asked him to clean up the mess, using its powers under Section 92 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Mr. Bratton did not attend the court hearing at Lincoln Magistrates Court on Monday, 30th April 2012, which was held in his absence. He was found guilty, fined £600 and ordered to pay £350 costs to West Lindsey District Council plus a £15 victim surcharge.

In a separate incident, Mr. John Dukes, of Harrow Close pleaded guilty of failing to clear domestic waste and household items from his garden. Mr. Dukes attended Lincoln Magistrates Court on Monday, 30th April 2012 and confirmed the area is now clear. He was fined £200 and ordered to pay £350 costs to West Lindsey District Council plus a £15 victim surcharge.

Court action was taken after final legal notices went ignored.