DROPPING cigarette butts in Pembrokeshire cost 13 people a total of £5,590 as a second round of litter fines went to court yesterday.

The cases were brought before Haverfordwest Magistrates Court on Thursday (February 14) after people who were issued on-the-spot fines failed to pay up.

Six offenders pleaded guilty in court and a further seven entered guilty pleas by post. Each was given a £200 fine, £200 in prosecution costs and a surcharge of £30.

Since September last year, people caught dropping litter in Pembrokeshire, including cigarette butts, could be given a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) by an enforcement agency. These fines can cost individuals up to £150 depending on the offence, reduced to £75 if paid within 10 days.

The fines are issued by private firm District Enforcement on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council.

Failing to pay an FPN can lead to the charge of littering being taken to court, where magistrates can issue fines of up to £2,500.