TWENTY "mystery" wardens have been appointed to get tough on litter louts.

New laws introduced this week mean anyone over the age of 10 caught dropping rubbish by the plainclothed watchmen can be fined £50.

The action is part of Wigan Council's high profile Kick Litter Into Touch campaign.

The biggest enemy is smokers' litter, sweet wrappers, drinks cans and cartons, chewing gum and fast food packaging which wardens will see as their priority.

On a trial run within half an hour officers caught and formally cautioned five people for dropping litter and others for throwing refuse from cars.

And the council has set up a working arrangement with the DVLC to identify vehicle owners .

During the trial businesses whose drivers were caught throwing litter from their cabs were contacted and firms have fully co-operated.

People and Places Manager, Nick Burdekin, said: "This means lorry drivers who drop litter may face a fine and disciplinary measures from their own company as well."