LITTER louts are being reminded they could face an on-the-spot fine if they are caught dropping rubbish on the streets of Potters Bar.

The warning was issued by Hertsmere Borough Council this week after it revealed that three people have been furnished with �75 fixed penalty notices in the town since the beginning of February.

Another ticket was handed out in South Mimms in April.

The fines were issued as part of the council’s Take Pride in Hertsmere initiative.

The authority also said it would be carrying out ‘litter patrols’ across the borough in order to encourage people to stop littering and make them aware that dropping rubbish or cigarette ends in public could land them with a fine.

Jean Heywood, the council’s environment portfolio holder, said: “The litter patrols will help to increase awareness among residents that littering is not acceptable in the borough.

“People seen dropping rubbish will usually be asked to pick it up and, if they refuse, will be given a fixed penalty notice.

“People should take pride in the area and not drop waste they can’t be bothered to either put in the bin or recycle.”

Fines that are settled within 10 days will be reduced to �50.

For more information call the council on 020 8207 7435