Smokers fined in litter campaign

Sixteen smokers have received fines for dropping cigarette butts in north Oxfordshire.

During a two-week period in October, 11 penalties were handed out in Banbury, four in Bicester and one in Kidlington.

Cherwell District Council said the fines were part of an anti-litter campaign, which included the introduction of new lamppost ashtrays.

The fines are £75, but those who pay within a week will receive a £50 penalty instead.

The council added that it had introduced more places for people to dispose of rubbish, including personal pouches where filters can be stored.

Councillor George Reynolds, Cherwell's portfolio holder for environment, recreation and health, said: "The lamppost ashtrays are obviously a welcome addition as they are very well used, and we have given out more than 2,000 pouches.

"Once others start to notice the difference, we think the effect will snowball."