Environment watchdogs have voiced their concern over the increase in illegally dumped asbestos.

A blue Volvo car was recently found full of the hazardous material in Lotus Way, Jaywick, and a large pile was also found in St Osyth Road, Clacton.

Environment Agency investigators are also probing the discovery of a Transit van found crammed with about a ton of asbestos as well as several old tyres, car parts and general rubbish.

The yellow van, registration C223 S0Y, was found dumped in Rush Green Road, Clacton, on October 17.

It is believed to have been left there the week before.

The waste has all been removed by Tendring Council to be disposed of at a landfill site.

Now, the agency has launched an appeal for help in a bid to crack down on illegal dumping of the waste.

And they have appealed for any information which may help them - in confidence.

John Parish, Agency Environment Protection Officer said: "The situation is getting very serious and we would certainly welcome any information on the persons that are disposing of this asbestos or where it may have originated from."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the 24-hour emergency hotline on 0800 807060

Published Wednesday October 30, 2002

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette