POLICE and the council will be cracking down on litter louts who throw waste from cars in Clydebank this week. They are hoping the week long initiative - which started on Monday - will help to combat the problem of littering which is blighting the town.

Officers will use unmarked police cars to target culprits, particularly during breakfast and lunch periods, and take appropriate action. Patrols will pay particular attention to the A82, all service stations, fast food outlets and the main shopping areas. The police will also use this opportunity to crack down on those using mobile phones while driving or not using seat belts.

Chief Inspector Brian Shaw told the Post: "Police Scotland are committed to tackling transport litter and recognise that this mindless behaviour negatively impacts on our communities.

"We will work in partnership with our colleagues from West Dunbartonshire Council and we will take appropriate action against those responsible."

David Hay from the council commented: "The simple message to drivers is don't throw litter from your car; take it home with you.

"There will be extra patrols this week by the police and our Litter Control Team, who will issue fixed penalty notices on the spot to offenders.

"Transport Litter, coming mainly from cars and other vehicles, is a major problem.

"Some drivers think nothing of throwing things out of a moving car. Not only is it dangerous, it causes additional work for the authorities to clear the mess which at the end of the day the offenders themselves are paying for through council tax etc.

"It also causes needless major hold-ups to traffic flow where council workers need to close lanes to clear the rubbish in a safe way.

"We are very fortunate in West Dunbartonshire to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, so we shouldn't allow drivers to get away with mindless littering. We will be out and about this week to drive home this message loud and clear."

Anyone caught throwing items from a vehicle can be issued with a Fixed Penalty Ticket of �50 or if convicted by a Court of Law to a fine not exceeding �2,500.