The data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) also shows that using strong legal powers under the Labour government Calderdale ranks joint 6th in England for the number of vehicles seized for fly-tipping, outperforming most major cities.

Powers to seize and potentially crush vehicles are designed to disrupt repeat and organised fly-tipping by removing the means used to commit the offence and act as a strong deterrent.

Josh Fenton-Glynn, MP for Calder Valley, said: “We’re determined to stop the fly-tipping cowboys who pollute our beautiful borough. Thanks to our Labour government Calderdale Council now have more powers to crack down on them. That means more CCTV and drones, more fines and even seizing and crushing the vehicles of repeat offenders.”

Mary Creagh MP, Minister for Waste, said: “Fly-tipping is a crime, but it’s now a crime with consequences. We will also add penalty points to fly-tippers driving licences, to make them think twice before doing a favour for their mates on the weekend.”

Fly-tipping costs Calderdale Council up to £1 million a year, diverting resources away from essential public services.

If residents see fly-tipping they are advised not to approach the person or attempt to look through waste in case it is hazardous. Instead, they should report it using the council website including the exact location; what it is; and how much is there. If the fly-tipping is observed they are asked to include the day; date; and time of the offence; a description of the person; and details of their vehicle. This should include the registration number, colour, make and model.