A range of items were dumped in Ulverston last week just one mile from the local recycling centre.

Archie Workman, a resident from the area, reported the issue on Thursday, February 22, having come across the sight near Ulverston Leisure Centre.

The items left included Christmas trees, car seats, dining chairs, garden chairs and medical chairs.

Mr Workman wanted to know: "So good people of Ulverston, is this acceptable?"

He was encouraged to officially report the crime through the Westmorland and Furness Council portal, which can be found here.

A spokesperson from the council said: "It is clear that much of the material that has been irresponsibly dumped at this recycling site in Ulverston is not recyclable, but general waste that should instead be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre.

"There is one such centre in Ulverston, less than a mile away from where this waste was dumped at the leisure centre."

The spokesperson went on to confirm that the council was viewing the incident as fly-tipping, a criminal offence which is 'never a victimless crime'.

They added: "It damages wildlife, nature and the environment, creates eyesores and there is always a financial cost in the clearance, disposal and investigation of the offence.

"These are costs that are ultimately borne by the council tax payers of Westmorland and Furness."

The council will now be taking the appropriate next steps to find those responsible.

“We investigate every case of fly-tipping reported and, if appropriate, action will be taken.

"This can range from fixed penalty notices for £250 and warning letters being issued to prosecutions, potentially significant fines and even custodial sentences for the most serious offences."

The incident was used to remind locals of how to properly deal with unwanted items.

“Residents can dispose of unwanted large items or non-recyclables by taking them to our Household Waste Recycling Centre or by contacting us to arrange collection – to find out more, visit our website.”