PEOPLE who leave out bags of litter in Pendle streets are being threatened with legal action and possible £1,000 fines by the council.

Bosses at the borough authority say although their recycling is working well, there are still those abusing the system by leaving side waste' next to wheelie bins and that they will be punished if they don't fall in line.

Some householders have been sent a warning letter reminding them of how they should put out their waste and offering additional recycling boxes if needed.

In some cases, these letters have been followed up by visits from council staff.

The council says in most cases this has produced an improvement, but in 63 cases over the last two weeks, people have continued to abuse the system and have been issued with formal legal notices.

If these people do not follow the correct procedure they will be taken to court and risk being fined up to £1,000.

Coun John David, executive member for the environment, said: "We have been delighted with the large increase in our recycling rate which is now running at about 34 per cent compared to about 20 per cent last year, and in general the system is working well.

"There are however some small areas where we have problems. We will continue to explain the system to people in all areas of Pendle and we will do all we can to help with any difficulties.

"In the end, however, if residents are not prepared to co-operate and are affecting the lives of their neighbours then we will take action and we are now doing just that.

"The council is taking the matter very seriously and if residents who have received explanatory letters and notices over the last few weeks do not comply they will be taken to court."

But the move has angered some. One Every Street resident, who asked not to be named, said: "We are a big family and the bins are just not big enough for us.

"Sometimes we have extra bags. Why should we be punished for that?"