Tough action tackles litterbugs

Anyone caught littering in Shrewsbury faces tough action following an increase in rubbish in the town.

Wardens can issue offenders on-the-spot fines or litterbugs can be prosecuted, resulting in a fine of up to £2,500.

The council said a "huge marketing push" to boost Christmas shopper numbers could be a possible factor behind the increase in litter.

People are not allowed to drop anything on the ground, including biodegradable items such as apple cores.

Moving car

A spokesman said as an authority it was "determined to clamp down".

He said: "If our wardens saw someone throwing a cigarette end out of a moving car in the town centre, it is possible to track that person down and prosecute them.

"We as an authority have the capacity to deliver on-the-spot fines.

"We have on occasion brought a prosecution through the courts, which can result in a fine of up to £2,500."