Patrols are being stepped up in an effort to catch illegal fly-tippers dumping their Christmas trees in countryside near Chorley.

And people are being asked to report anyone they spot tipping refuse on the West Pennine Moors.

United Utilities, which manages the area, said that in the past year countryside rangers had discovered all kinds of rubbish - ranging from abattoir waste to old tyres - dumped across the Rivington estate on an almost daily basis.

Ranger Glynn Haworth said: "Fly tipping is a big problem for us and it is totally irresponsible and unacceptable.

"At this time of year we often have problems with people dumping old Christmas trees.

"Not only is it unsightly, but it can pose a threat to the public and farm animals and also costs the company a great deal of money to clean up."

The company is encouraging people to use local authority facilities to recycle old Christmas trees and wood chippings.

Mr Haworth is a member of the Rivington based central catchment team which covers United Utilities' estates from Blackburn to Rivington.

He warned that patrols would be increased, especially during the evenings, in a bid to catch fly tippers.

Also, anyone spotting offenders is asked to ring 01204 853360 and report the registration number of vehicles and any other details.

He added that anyone caught tipping will be prosecuted.