A MAJOR clampdown on littering in Dudley borough has resulted in a huge increase in the number of Fixed Penalty Notices issued.

More than 1,092 notices were issued between March and May, compared with just 14 for the same period last year.

Fines have been handed out by Kingdom Enforcement Services - a company made up of ex-police and military personnel - who took on responsibility for patrolling the borough’s streets, parks and open spaces for a 12 month pilot in March.

The firm has five officers armed with body cameras on the beat, plus one team leader overseeing operations.

The move is not costing Dudley Council a penny, as Kingdom receive payment directly as a percentage of the financial penalties issued to those who drop litter or fail to pick up after their pets. The local authority also retains a percentage of the income from the fixed penalty notices.

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “Residents and business have told us that they want to see tougher action against those who blight our landscapes with littering and dog fouling.

“We have a zero tolerance approach towards anyone caught committing these offences and we are pleased to see Kingdom’s new enforcement getting swiftly to work.”

Mark Mountford, business manager for Kingdom, added: “Our results speak for themselves and the message is simple – if you drop litter or don’t pick up after your dogs, there is a good chance you’ll be caught and hit in the pocket.”