LITTER louts will face a �75 fixed penalty notice if caught dropping rubbish from tomorrow (Tuesday). Environmental enforcement officers from Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) and police community support officers patrolling Stevenage can issue fines to peo

LITTER louts will face a �75 fixed penalty notice if caught dropping rubbish from tomorrow (Tuesday).

Environmental enforcement officers from Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) and police community support officers patrolling Stevenage can issue fines to people who drop litter, gum or cigarette butts.

This is the first time fixed penalty notices have been issued in the town for litter offences.

Littering is a criminal offence and a penalty notice gives offenders a way of avoiding a criminal record and a fine of up to �2,500, as it is an alternative to prosecution at a magistrates' court. No further action will be taken if the fine is paid within the specified time, with a reduced amount payable if settled within 10 days of being issued.

Cllr Joan Lloyd, SBC's executive member for resources, said: "Litter is a huge issue. Every year we collect 2,480 tonnes of litter in Stevenage, which costs us over �1million.

"We want people to take a pride in their town and help us keep Stevenage tidy.

"On the spot fines will help to make people more aware of their responsibilities and at the same time keep our streets cleaner.