A PENSIONER has been fined after throwing dog waste into a river six times.

Geoffrey Wright, of Lee Road, Bacup, was caught throwing the waste in the River Irwell between October 12 and October 14, 2018.

The 71-year-old has been ordered to pay more than £300 after he pleaded guilty to six offences of littering under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Rossendale councillor Jackie Oakes, portfolio holder for operations, described the man's behaviour as 'disgusting' and 'vile'.

Wright did not appear in court and pleaded guilty by post. He has been ordered to pay £200 legal costs to Rossendale Council and £133 for investigations costs.

Cllr Oakes said: "This behaviour was disgusting, it damages the environment and spoils it for the majority of people in the borough who want to live in a clean area.

"I hope this man feels ashamed of his behaviour. This is a good result and shows we take this sort of vile conduct very seriously.”

Wright was given a six month conditional discharge on top of the fines. He was ordered to pay £20 a month due to being on a state pension.