Firms warned over smokers' butts

Workers who smoke outside their firms in Nottingham are being targeted in a crackdown on litter.

The city council is giving leaflets to scores of employers to urge them to install bins or ashtrays outside buildings if workers smoke there.

Smokers are being reminded they face £50 fines for dropping butts.

Special pouches are also being handed out that people can carry around with them to use for disposing of their cigarette butts.

Council chiefs have asked its team of neighbourhood wardens to deliver advice leaflets to major businesses in their areas.

Councillor Brian Grocock, spokesman for the environment, said: "For some reason, people don't think cigarette ends count as litter but the amount dropped on the streets, particularly around office buildings, is a major problem.

"People should be aware that if they don't discard their cigarette ends in a clean and safe way, it could end up costing them £50."