This time of year many people are out in their gardens, trimming and pruning.

Tandridge District Council is reminding people it is an offence to cause a statutory smoke nuisance – and their policy is to take formal action against people who regularly have bonfires which cause a statutory nuisance to their neighbours.

Although bonfires is one way of getting rid of garden waste, they can create smoke, cause air pollution and prevent people from opening windows, hanging out washing or even going outside.

The District Council is reminding residents there are other ways, such as compost their waste, use the Green Waste Club or take it to a recycling site.