SCORES of waste tyres have been illegally dumped around a beauty spot, ruining the area for walkers.

The tyres were discovered over a large area of the West Pennine Moors, near Darwen - just a few months after a similar incident in nearby Roddlesworth.

At least 30 tyres were dumped over a dry stone wall off Green Arms Road, near to Turton and Entwistle Reservoir, and around 70 others were strewn around woodland.

United Utilities, which is responsible for the land, have been made aware of the fly tipping and are working to remove the tyres.

If caught, businesses face a fine of up to £50,000 and prison sentences of up to five years for the offence.

The latest illegal tipping comes after more than 500 tryes were dumped over a three-mile stretch of land along Tockholes Road, Roddle-sworth last October.

Jean Rigby, Conservative ward councillor for the North Turton with Tockholes ward, said: "I am very, very angry. They are spoiling a beautiful area.

"People often go for walks, or walk their dogs in that area.

"They must have pulled the wagon into the layby and thrown them over the low wall. I think it is the same people doing this."

Colin Firth, from Darwen, who made the discovery, said: "Whoever has dumped them, has disposed of them for free."

Coun Rigby added: "I want them in court, no two ways about it.

"They should be made to foot the bill and clear the tyres."

People are urged to contact the council on the fly tipping hotline, on 01254 585921, if they see anything suspicious.