Illegal waste operators jailed

Robert Bilsby, 71, and Matthew Bilsby, 30, illegally disposed of waste collected through their skip hire business, 1066 Skips, on land they rented in Westfield.

Much of what they collected, including toxic plastics, was burned, often with petrol.They also pocketed thousands of pounds.

With assistance from the Environment Agency, Sense of Place officers gathered enough evidence against the Bilsbys to build a case under the Environmental Protection Act.

Judge David Rennie, who sentenced the Bilsbys, of Cackle Street, Brede, at Hove Trial Centre, said their actions were “disgraceful and all just to make money”.

The pair received eight-month custodial sentences, and were ordered to pay £14,000 each in costs, including almost £6,000 to the landowner for the clean-up operation.

“This is a terrific result,” said Rother District Council member for the environment Cllr Tony Ganly.

“The council wants to make Rother a better place and the environment is a key part of that, so it is vital these crimes meet with a suitable punishment.

“This investigation forms part of the council’s Sense of Place project ,which looks to crack down on fly-tipping and dumping in our district to keep it looking as it should.

“It is already having a significant impact in Rother and this prosecution is just a further example of its success.”

Samantha Waller of the Environment Agency, said: “Robert and Matthew Bilsby had a blatant disregard for the community and the local environment.

“I hope this case sends out a clear message that we will take resolute action on illegal waste operations.”

To report fly-tipping or environmental crimes in the district contact the Sense of Place team on 01424 787000.

PICTURED: One of the Bilsbys pours petrol over burning rubbish