A beauty spot in St Nicholas-at-Wade was blighted by fly-tippers with damaged asbestos sheets, reports Kent Live.

Asbestos sheets were found dumped next to old furniture and garden cuttings in Chambers Wall.

It is believed that the waste came from an old garage or outbuilding and was dumped from a large goods vehicle tipper truck.

Exposure to damaged asbestos can be a serious health hazard and Thanet District Council are asking anyone who may have seen the dumping take place or who recognises some of the waste to get in touch.

Cllr Lin Fairbrass, cabinet member for community safety & environmental services, said:

“There was a substantial amount of asbestos in sheets which may have come from an old garage or outbuilding.

The bulk of the waste appears to be the result of a large garden clearance, including old outdoor furniture and cuttings.

Asbestos when damaged presents a significant risk to health. It should always be removed by an experienced, licensed contractor as hazardous waste, and disposed of at an approved site.

Fly-tipping is illegal and the removal of it takes up a lot of resource. Last financial year Thanet District Council spent over £100k clearing fly-tipped waste. We do prosecute whenever possible as well as issuing fixed penalty notices of up to £400.”

Anyone who may have useful information regarding the incident can email streetscene.enforcement@Thanet.gov.uk