Nena Watson, 23, of Lambourn Avenue, North Shields, has been fined £195 for failing to pay a £50 fixed penalty notice within a specified time.

On Wednesday, May 14, a neighbourhood warden from North Tyneside Council saw her drop a cigarette butt near Battle Hill shopping centre and issued her with a £50 fixed penalty notice.

Ms Watson failed to pay within the specified time and was found guilty in her absence at North Tyneside Magistrates Court on Friday, September 12, where she was fined £100 with £80 costs and a £15 surcharge.

Afterwards, Coun Bruce Pickard, cabinet member with responsibility for cleaner neighbours, said: "We're committed to working with communities towards achieving a litter-free North Tyneside.

"We will not accept people either littering or allowing their dogs to foul without clearing up. We don't want to prosecute people but we owe it to other residents to take action."

People can report fly-tipping and other environmental problems by calling 0845 2000103.