Boat fly-tipped in fields 'blatant and appalling'

14 hours ago

Louise Parry

News image — A councillor is appealing to the public to find out whose boat was dumped in a field near Sharnbrook

Doug McMurdo A cream coloured boat, shaped like a retro speedboat, leans against white barriers with its nose in the air, on a country lane leading into a field. — A councillor is appealing to the public to find out whose boat was dumped in a field near Sharnbrook

A council is working to remove a motorboat that was dumped in countryside.

Independent Sharnbrook councillor Doug McMurdo said it was "a blatant and premeditated dumping of someone's rubbish" on Odell Road in Bedfordshire.

"I think it is appalling anyone has the ignorance to leave any material on private or public property," he added.

Bedford Borough Council said: "We are aware of this fly-tipping incident and will be working to have the vessel removed."

Doug McMurdo The back of the boat is completely shattered and has cables and wood scattered around inside it. You can see the field in the distance beyond. — Bedford Borough Council said it was aware of the incident

It was not known where the boat was last moored but there are numerous lakes nearby while the River Great Ouse is also close to where it was found.

A council spokesperson added: "Dumping rubbish is a serious offence which can lead to those responsible receiving heavy fines and a prison sentence.

"This includes waste such as household waste including white goods (washing machines, fridges, etc.), builders' rubble, garden refuse and dumped watercraft."

McMurdo added: "Those disposing of such need to be reminded of their obligations to dispose of materials properly and through registered carriers – in this instance clearly this was not the case"

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