A large pile of rubbish was dumped on a country lane in Bradwell.

The rubbish, which appeared to be a mixture of garden waste, was left in Perry Road, Bradwell, between Friday and Saturday.

Pc Andy Long, a Rural and Heritage Crime Officer with Essex Police spotted the rubbish whilst on patrol in the area.

Braintree Council confirmed the rubbish was reported and would be cleared by council staff.

Wendy Schmitt, councillor responsible for environment and place, said: "Our enforcement team are aware of this fly-tip and are actively investigating.

"Fly tipping is wholly unacceptable – it ruins our environment and the cost of removing it is an unnecessary burden on the taxpayer.

"I’d urge residents to report details of any fly tipping to us at www.braintree.gov.uk/flytipping so we can continue to tackle the issue and pursue those who have absolutely no respect for the Braintree District.”

Small scale fly tipping carries a fine of £400 for each offence, discounted to £300 if paid within ten days.

For the most serious cases, the council can prosecute individuals who may face a fine of up to £50,000 or up to 12 months in prison.