DASH-cam footage will be used to help fine local litter bugs in a Scottish first.

North Ayrshire Council said today they have launched their the initiative to tackle people tossing rubbish from moving vehicles.

And in a call to residents they have urged them to come forward with evidence – via their dashboard cameras – to help the Council in their bid to keep North Ayrshire tidy.

While the Council will use the footage to investigate incidents and, where possible, issue fines it is hoped the use of dash-cam footage will also act as a deterrent.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Place, said: “Our priority is keeping North Ayrshire tidy.

“The Environmental Enforcement team has been a fantastic addition to the Council and they have done some sterling work in keeping our communities tidy.

“Now the use of dash-cams will give them another dimension. We want to work with our communities and this initiative is something we’re sure they will welcome.

“It is very frustrating when you see people brazenly throwing rubbish out of their cars. It’s dangerous to fellow motorists and, of course, our staff who then have to clear up the mess. It’s also completely disrespectful to our communities.

“We all want our communities to be clean, tidy and welcoming to visitors and locals alike. That’s why we must deter the minority who think its okay to toss rubbish on our streets.”

Dashboard cameras have been used in England and Wales by Police to help prosecute motorists caught speeding or driving dangerously.

But it’s believed to be the first time a local authority has used them to help tackle the issue of litter.

The team will work with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to identify the owners of vehicles.

In Scotland, the owners are not responsible for the actions of others but they will be asked to provide details of anyone caught throwing litter. If they don’t provide this, they could be fined themselves.

The cuncil’s Environmental Enforcement team were set up in 2015.

In 2015, the concil issued 14 fixed penalty notices to people caught fly-tipping and in 2017-2018, that number has risen to 238. There is also a similar type increase in people being fined for failing to clear up after their dog and litter dropping.

If you have any footage please email dashcam@north-ayrshire.gov.uk