RUBBISH dumping in Blackburn with Darwen's back streets is at "epidemic" levels, according to council bosses.

They have teamed up with Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson to call for people to be more responsible and to show that the mess is unnecessary.

Mrs Anderson met Peter Hunt, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council's director of direct services, in a typical back street near Woodville Terrace.

In it was a dumped fridge as well as other items of household waste.

Mr Hunt said there was no need for rubbish dumping as the council had services to take items except building materials away.

He added: "In some areas of the borough this situation is reaching epidemic proportions.

"It's ludicrous the amount we spend on it as a council. That money could be spent on other things."

Mrs Anderson, who earlier this week highlighted the problems of plastic shopping bags creating litter, said: "It's a growing problem for Blackburn with Darwen.

"I wanted to highlight the need for people to be more responsible."

The council will clear large items within five working days. Call 01254 585921 for more information.