This is not an effort to get free anything, it is an effort to make your readers aware that they can prevent their rubbish being fly-tipped and some of them even being fined.

Your readers should be aware that anyone offering to remove rubbish for reward must be in possession of a licence issued by the Department of the Environment.

This is a licence to carry waste to the appropriate sites and comply with the conditions set out by the Environment Agency.

I come into contact daily with people, some elderly or vulnerable, who have people knocking on their doors offering these services for a reduced rate payable in cash. With all the press coverage on bogus callers, this is yet another way these people are being targeted.

Ask your readers to demand to see the licence before agreeing any transfer of waste and if in doubt, contact the Environmental Department at the town hall, preferably with a description of the vehicle or registration number.

This action will have the effect of a double-edged sword, preventing your waste from being wrongfully disposed of and allowing bona fide licensed waste carriers to supply a fair and legal service. Ask at the town hall if they can recommend a carrier to you.

Name and address supplied