ON-THE-SPOT fines are to be introduced for people caught littering, doing graffiti or letting their dogs foul public places in the Chiltern district.

The new policy, which comes into effect on Sunday November 1, is the joint idea of Chiltern District Council and Thames Valley Police.

For the first month of the new system, warning letters will be given out in a bid to deter future offending – but after that, fines ranging from £50 to £75 will be issued by PCSOs or council officers.

Fines can also be sent through the post.

Cllr Noel Brown, Chiltern District cabinet member for environmental health, said: "We know that the majority of our residents don’t like seeing litter, graffiti or dogs fouling footpaths so where it does happen we want to nip it in the bud.

“The Council is not adopting a zero tolerance policy but wants to tackle the problems caused by the few individuals that persist in spoiling our streets and open spaces for others.”

Failure to pay a fine can result in a higher fine or imprisonment, the council said.

If a youth aged between 10 and 18 commits an offence, their parents and/or the Youth Offending Service will be informed before a fine is issued.

For more information contact Chiltern District Council’s environmental services team on 01494 729000 or email asb@chiltern.gov.uk.