A clean-up operation began today after tonnes of waste were dumped on Ashburton playing fields.

Travellers were blamed for the mountains of rubbish - mostly building waste such as wooden panels, cement and bricks but also including doors and furniture - after an illegal campsite was evicted from the site by Croydon Council last week.

The council, which faces a hefty clean-up bill, said it would seek prosecution of the fly-tippers.

It launched a campaign, under the slogan 'Don't Mess with Croydon', to crack down on people who dump rubbish after Labour won control of the council in May. 

Andy Bloss, 25, of Bywood, who walks his dogs at Ashburton playing fields, called for barriers to prevent vehicles illegally entering. 

He said: "I am angry as after all this is where I live and it is being vandalized . This is not the first time this happened.

"It happens a few times every year, not just in the park but also in the woods opposite.

"They stay, dump their rubbish, then go. They have no regard for residents and the many families who live in the area.

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The waste was left after the council evicted an illegal encampment

"I don't blame the council but it shows how difficult it is to stop flytipping.

"The previous council struggled and this one will struggle as well, unless they have 24 hour officers on patrol. I doubt that will happen.

"Put some barriers on the park or posts to stop vehicles from entering the field."

The travellers were evicted by court order and camping on the playing fields for several weeks.

A council spokesman added: "We are aware of the fly-tipping in Ashburton Park and are in the process of removing it.

"We will also be seeking to prosecute those responsible."

What should the council do to stop fly-tipping? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below or email letters@croydonguardian.co.uk