A WOMAN was slapped with a £330 fine for tossing two cigarette butts on the ground at a McDonald’s car park.

Lynette Willdigg, 34, was caught dropping the stubbed-out butts in Cannock, Staffs and given a fine of £75.

Enforcement officers from Cannock Council ordered her to pay the fixed penalty, which would have been reduced to £50 if she paid within 10 days.

However Willdigg, of Hall Meadow, Cannock failed to pay the fine and was taken to court.

The North Staffordshire magistrates found her guilty of littering.

Her fine was increased to £220 and was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £80.

Mike Walker, the council's environmental protection manager, said: "If Ms Willdigg had paid the fixed penalty she would have avoided court proceedings and a criminal record which could have lifetime consequences.

"Even small items such as cigarette ends are litter and anyone caught dropping them can expect to receive a fixed penalty notice in the first instance, with repeat offenders being likely to face prosecution."

Mr Walker added that every year the council removes and disposes of 245 tonnes of waste from the streets and much of is takeaway packaging and cigarette-related items.

This waste comes at a cost of £135,000 to council tax payers.

A Cannock Council statement said: “Cannock Chase Council is committed to improving the environment for local communities, businesses and visitors to the area.

“Officers regularly undertake patrols across the district in an effort to tackle those responsible for littering and dog fouling.”

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