Julian Priest and Sarah White of 33 Sherwood Place, Kirkby-in-Ashfield failed to attend the court hearing on 28th April 2010 where magistrates found them guilty of failing to comply with disposing of accumulated waste.

After repeated requests to contact the Council, and failure to pay a fixed penalty notice, the case was referred on to the Magistrates Court.

The Court heard how Priest and White had received an initial visit from Ashfield District Council on 25th September 2009 and again on 8th October 2009, however had refused to comply with regulations.

After receiving complaints and with the waste accumulation posing a potential health risk, Ashfield District Council had no choice other than to take further action.

Edd deCoverly, Head of Neighbourhood Services at Ashfield District Council commented,

“This prosecution enforces the point that the Council will not tolerate crimes against the environment, particularly where the health and well-being of the general public can potentially be adversely affected”.