ENVIRONMENTAL health chiefs are appealing to the public to help them clamp down on fly-tippers.

Law-abiding citizens, who end up having to foot the fly-tipping bill, are being asked to blow the whistle on people they see illegally dumping rubbish. They are being promised a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offenders.

Environmental health bosses believe that they could save at least £60,000 from the annual street cleaning budget of £500,000 if the clampdown is successful.

David Williams, director of environmental services at Bromsgrove District Council, said: "We will not tolerate people who deliberately violate the countryside and threaten public health and safety. Be warned and be under no illusions. We will prosecute the culprits.

"The cost of cleaning up is growing all the time and residents and businesses end up picking up the tag. It must not go on. Join our campaign and give us any information you may have. It is in your own interests to do so."

Members of the health and leisure scrutiny committee last night (Tuesday) were advised of other possible moves to clean up the district, including providing a communal skip, linked with clean up days, expanding the council's Slim Your Bin initiative. Introducing special collections of bulky waste on special days throughout the year, and, in partnership with Worcestershire County Council, improving recycling facilities.

During the first nine months of this year, the council dealt with more than 1,000 cases of fly-tipping, and 311 cases of abandoned vehicles. A further 86 vehicles were collected during a special amnesty.

"All sorts of things are being dumped, including car parts, household refuse, fire extinguishers, drums, caravans, window frames and glazing, rubble, soil and garden waste in all sorts of places from car parks to remote leafy lanes.

"At the very least it causes an unwanted eyesore. At its worst, it can be a serious threat to public health and safety, particularly for children when they come into contact with sharp objects, like glass and metal, and dangerous chemicals, such as battery acid. It can also encourage rats," added Mr Williams.