BRADFORD Council has released an image of a man they want to speak to as part of an investigation into multiple flytipping offences.

The man was captured on camera standing next to a white Ford Transit van that has been seized by the authority after it was linked to incidents of flytipping in the Bowling, Wilsden and Heaton areas of Bradford.

The Council seized the vehicle, with the help of police and a tow truck, from Lynfield Drive, Heaton, after it was spotted parked on a grass verge there.

A spokesman for the Council said the van was seized after local enquiries failed to identify anyone as its owner.

Officers found a load of waste in the van, which they believe could have been earmarked for another flytip.

A Council spokesman said the van had no registered keeper and was not insured, so officers have been unable to find the owner.

However, a spokesman said the vehicle - registration number PE05 GZH - will be kept for 15 days to give its owner a chance to come forward.

If the owner does not come forward, the van can be destroyed or sold.

Using powers which came into force in 2015 the Council can seize vehicles if there is evidence that it has been used for flytipping and there is a suspicion that it may be used again.

A Council spokesman said: “Not only was the van caught on camera, a man was also recorded with the vehicle.

"Bradford Council would like to speak to the man on the video. If anyone has any information about his identity, they are asked to get in touch with Bradford Council.”

Since they were introduced in October, the authority has issued nine Penalty Charge Notices to people caught flytipping.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the Council’s executive member for Environment, Sport and Culture, said: “Flytipping is a dreadful blight on our community and we are determined to try our best to catch the criminals who try to get away with dumping rubbish.

“We now have more legislation at our disposal to combat fly tipping but our greatest allies in this battle are members of the public. If you see flytipping taking place, please note down as many details as possible, including vehicle licence plate numbers, and inform the Council."

Anyone who recognises the man in the picture can contact the Council’s environment enforcement team on 01274 434366.

Call the same number to report flytipping, or visit www.bradford.gov.uk.

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