A MAN who ignored a fixed penalty notice for dropping litter in the town has been fined by a court in his absence.

Thomas Davies, of Witley Close, Kidderminster, failed to attend a hearing at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court on Friday, July 28.

The case against him was heard in his absence and the court found him guilty of littering.

Nina Dorrell, prosecuting for Wyre Forest District Council, told the court how on January 23, of this year, Davies was seen discarding a pill packet in Vicar Street and was subsequently issued with a £75 fixed penalty notice for the offence - which he failed to pay.

Magistrates fined him £220 and ordered him to pay costs of £229.81 and a victim surcharge of £30.

Councillor Rebecca Vale, Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for operational services, said: "A lot of time and effort goes in to keeping our district clean and looking good.

"Thankfully, the majority of residents work with us and use litter bins provided or take their rubbish home.

"I hope this case helps get the message across that littering the streets is not only anti-social, it can also be extremely expensive."

Cllr Vale added: "I would urge anyone who does receive a fixed penalty notice, not to ignore it.

"It will cost them more if their case goes to court."