A MAN who ignored warnings and repeatedly put out his rubbish early has been ordered to pay £300.

Kenny Knight, 26, was taken to court by Basildon Council after he failed to pay earlier fines for twice leaving his black sacks out in the street.

He was given his first warning last May for dumping his bin bags outside his home in Helmores, Laindon, two days ahead of the area’s usual collection date.

He was then given a £55 fine in October for repeating the offence.

Knight failed to pay the fine and as a result, was brought before Basildon magistrates, who fined him £150 and ordered him to pay a further £150 in costs.

The council is warning other offenders are likely to face similar action if they ignore its rules on waste collection.

Terri Sargent, councillor responsible for the environment, said: “Leaving a refuse sack out early may seem like a minor offence, but they are an unnecessary eyesore and often end up with their contents spilled across the streets.

“This not only looks unsightly and encourages vermin, but also costs local taxpayers to clean up.”

Ms Sargent said the council would always warn householders leaving rubbish out on the wrong day, before taking action against them But she added: “Those who choose to ignore the warning and continue to blight the environment can expect to receive a fine.

“We are asking people to help us keep Basildon clean and tidy by placing their rubbish out no earlier than the evening before collection.”