CALLS are being made for residents in Dwyfor and Meirionnydd to get rid of their festive waste responsibly.

With the turkey and all the trimmings safely out of the way, thoughts may turn to having a clear out of unwanted items and Gwynedd Council’s Street Enforcement Team is reminding people not to be tempted to break the law by dumping their rubbish instead of getting rid of it in a responsible manner.

Gwynedd Council is also urging people to think carefully about what they do with their old furniture and appliances, and to recycle or dispose of them in the correct manner.

Fly tipping – or dumping rubbish – is a criminal offence, and it is irresponsible and dangerous, the council said. It makes the community look untidy and costs tens of thousands of pounds annually to clear. It can pose a risk to other people, especially children, and to wildlife, said the council.

Gwynedd Council’s street enforcement wardens can issue on-the-spot fines of £75 for very minor fly-tipping offences. However, those responsible for more serious waste disposal, duty of care and fly-tipping offences could face a court summons and fines running into thousands of pounds, or even a custodial sentence.

Cllr John Wynn Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet member for the environment, said: “People in Gwynedd invariably tell us that they want to see clean and tidy communities. By being more thoughtful and working together we can actually achieve this and live in neighbourhoods that we are all proud of.

“I ask people to kindly respect our local environment and use one of the council’s waste recycling centres or bulky waste collection service. You can also help to ensure that unwanted items are given a new lease of life by donating them to local charities.”

For help and advice on waste disposal, visit the council website www.gwynedd.gov.uk/recycling or contact the team on 01766 771000.