CIVIC chiefs are warning unlicensed waste collectors that they will be caught after a man was slapped with a fine.

A Southampton man was ordered to pay hundreds of pounds after operating without the correct waste carrier licence – whilst telling council officers he was someone else.

Albert Bowers, 59, had been collecting waste without the correct waste carrier licence – whilst telling council officers he was someone else.

Following an investigation by Test Valley Borough Council, he has now been ordered to pay more than £600.

Environmental portfolio holder, councillor Alison Johnston, said: “This prosecution is down to the hard work and determination of the council’s staff and I’m tremendously grateful.

“It is so simple for residents to check if the waste carrier they’re using is licensed. If you don’t have a licence, we will find out and are prepared to take you to court.”

Council officers received an anonymous tip from a resident who was concerned about Bowers’ practice.

Bowers, who has links to Southampton, admitted operating without a licence and giving officers a false name and address at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on August 1.

Having admitted both charges, he was issued a £140 fine before being made to pay an additional £450 in costs and a £30 victim surcharge.