A SCRAP metal collector who failed to get a licence from Eden District Council has been handed a bill of £880 by magistrates.

Ryan Coates - of Ryton, Tyne and Wear - was stopped by police officers in Alston in August 2022 and admitted to collecting a large load of metal items from a nearby farm.

The vehicle and load was then seized for waste offences and inspected for defects.

Mr Coates was successfully prosecuted for unlicensed scrap metal dealing, which can incur a fine of up to £5,000.

He pleaded guilty to the offence, which was heard at Carlisle Magistrates Court when he was given a fine of £200 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £80, along with costs of £600.

The police also took action against Coates for defects to his vehicle and for it being over the weight limit.

Westmorland and Furness Council spokeman said: “The Environmental Enforcement team is very pleased with the result of this case and hope that it acts as a deterrent to anybody thinking of travelling into this area to collect scrap, without a licence.

“Unlicensed collectors take trade from legitimate and licensed dealers and are often linked to later incidents of rural crime, such as the theft of quad bikes and burglaries.

“Local householders and businesses are reminded that they must only allow their waste to be taken away by individuals or companies who have the correct licenses and permits, to help deter crime and maintain public safety.”