A police clampdown on flytippers who have been blighting Keighley has resulted in two arrests, 14 fixed penalty notices and four vehicle seizures.

Twenty-five vehicles - mainly flatbed lorries and vans - were stopped by police yesterday as they travelled into the Keighley area. They were taken to the council depot in Royd Ings Avenue and subjected to rigorous checks.

One of those arrested appeared at court yesterday and was sentenced to 45 days' imprisonment for failing to pay court fines.

Police also issued 25 notices requiring drivers to produce their documents.

Acting Inspector Richard Baildon, of Bingley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Flytipping is illegal and it creates an unwelcoming environment that can increase fear of crime in our communities.

"This initiative has given the police and partners the opportunity to detect other offences committed by those involved in this illegal trade.

"All residents deserve to live in clean, safe neighbourhoods and we will continue to join forces with our partners to run operations like this in the future."

The multi-agency initiative was aimed at rogue operators who are paid by householders to dispose of rubbish legitimately, but who then dump it illegally and pocket the cash.

Councillor Kris Hopkins, leader of Bradford Council, said: "Flytipping not only blights the environment, it costs the council thousands of pounds each year.

"These rogue businesses are making a lot of money by dumping rubbish in our countryside. Hopefully, this operation will have served as a short, sharp shock to those who think they can get away with it."

Police officers checked if vehicles were linked to any previous offences or if occupants were wanted on other offences.

Officers from Bradford Council's visible services team checked to see if those carrying waste were properly licensed to do so.

Representatives from HM Revenue & Customs were on hand to check if vehicles were being run illegally on red diesel, and staff from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency were also at the site to check the vehicles.