Commercial operators have been suspected of being responsible of a huge fly-tip in Copeland.

Copeland Borough Council is keen to hear from anyone who might have information about the large amount of rubbish illegally dumped near the village of Beckermet.

The rubbish, in a layby close to the A595, contains rubble, wood and other builders’ waste.

Shirley Procter-Dow, Copeland’s community services manager, said: “This is a large amount of waste that could well have come from one or more commercial operators.

“It will take a lot of time and effort to clear, at a time when we’d like to concentrate resources on delivering our services.”

A spokesman added: “There is still a lot of pressure on our services. this has been caused partly by the pandemic, but also because there is an increase in recycling, which we welcome, but is a pressure.

“Fly-tipping is a problem everywhere, not just in Copeland but we urge people to help put a stop to it by reporting incidents when they can or come forward with any information they may have.”

People found to have committed this kind of environmental crime can be fined up to £400.

If it goes to court, they could even face imprisonment..

Ms Procter-Dow said: “We are keen to find whoever dumped this waste.” Anyone with information can contact info@copeland.gov.uk, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.