CHEEKY truck drivers are using Bonfire Night as an excuse to dump rubbish.

Council chiefs had to pay out around £2,000 last November to clean up after rogue drivers who tipped rubbish near bonfires.

They used Bonfire Night as a cover for illegal tipping and to escape fees for leaving it at proper site.

Inspector John Martin, chairman of a bonfire and firework safety group which includes police, fire service and Bolton council, fears lives could be put at risk.

"Most of these drivers are probably saving just a few pounds, but there is a real risk to people," he said.

"No-one knows what rubbish might be dumped. It could be explosive and a child could pick it up and put it on the bonfire."

People are being asked to report anyone seen tipping near bonfires by calling Bolton 522311, ext 4084, during office hours, or a 24-hour phone line: 535241.

The council is also urging people to register bonfires by ringing 522311, ext 4084.

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