AFTER a surge in incidents of flytipping in the Little Thurrock area a warning has been issued to residents not to use rogue traders.

The Little Thurrock Community Forum has called on residents to take responsibility for checking the credentials of would-be rubbish removers who make unsolicited calls.

It says: "Over the last week there have been several fly tips in Little Thurrock ranging from garden waste to mattresses and bags of general rubbish.

"We believe this is being caused by a cold callers offering to get rid of rubbish and then dumping it within 300 yards of picking it up.

"So the message is don't give your rubbish to people to get rid off unless they are licensed. Otherwise it will be dumped on your doorstep and you are still legally liable! Think before you agree."