MORE than 400 people have been issued on the spot fines for littering in Pendle just three weeks after enforcement officers were brought into the borough.

People have been caught dropping cigarette stubs, food wrappers and drinks cans and bottles.

District Enforcement Ltd works across all parts of Pendle for a 12 month trial at no cost to the council.

David Alexander, leader of the council's environmental crime team, said: "We want to clamp down on the people who are spoiling Pendle’s environment for everyone else.

"Littering is an environmental crime and the fine for littering has recently increased from £75 to £150, or £80 for early payment.

“This includes cigarette butts."

The council has also increased the fine for littering from a vehicle from £75 to £150.

This comes as the council is encouraging its residents to take part in the Great British Spring Clean campaign.

Schools and volunteering groups across the borough have been contacted to take create their own cleaning event between Friday, March 22 and Tuesday, April 23.

Those who register online will be given litter bags and pickers by the council and the litter will be taken away by the local authority.