UNSCRUPULOUS traders are being warned they could be fined if they dump waste on bonfires in the run-up to Guy Fawkes Night.

Council wardens are cracking down on those who take advantage of the season to make a quick profit by transporting and illegally flytipping waste on bonfires.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s executive member for the environment, said: “People shouldn’t get the idea that the bonfire season will provide them with a chance to get rid of their rubbish on the cheap.

“Council wardens will be looking out for flytipping and cracking down on culprits.”

Flytipping is a criminal offence and, if prosecuted, offenders can end up with a fine of up to £50,000 or 12 months in prison.

Cllr Ferriby added: “We now have the power to issue a £400 fixed penalty notice on people caught flytipping.

“Flytipped rubbish is not only unsightly but can be highly dangerous if someone sets it on fire.

“We hope people will enjoy their bonfire celebrations but we urge everyone to behave responsibly.”

Bradford Council is teaming up with the police, the fire service and the district’s largest social landlord, Incommunities, to tackle common bonfire season problems.

Members of the public are being urged to report dangerous bonfires, which can then be dealt with before they get out of hand.

If residents feel that any unlit bonfire is unsafe they can report it to the council on 01274 431000 or, if it is on Incommunities land, to Incommunities on 01274 254000.

Businesses, homes and schools are also being advised to remove accumulations of rubbish before they can be set on fire.

Chief Inspector Jo Beecroft, of Bradford District Police, said reports of anti-social behaviour often increased in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

She said it would “not be tolerated in the Bradford district and we will take firm action against those who are involved”.