A local woman from Kirkby-in-Ashfield was stopped by a man on Lowmoor Road on Tuesday 28th September for dropping a cigarette butt.

The man showed her an ID badge, however, displayed no Council logo and insisted that she pay a fine. The woman handed over £53 in cash.

She reported this to Ashfield District Council as she felt it was suspicious as she had received no receipt for her payment. She was advised by customer services that this was not a Council Officer and a legitimate fine amount would be £75, however cash would not have been accepted from her.

The matter has now been reported to the Police who will be reviewing the CCTV footage for possible evidence.

The man was approximately 5ft 8, in his early 30’s, with short un-kept hair and wearing a black suit and blue tie.

The Council would like to make it clear that the Community Protection Officers and Civil Enforcement Officers who issue fines will never accept cash and will always identify themselves with a valid ID badge. They also wear a uniform and high visibility outerwear.

For further information, please call 01623 450000.