Dropping a cigarette end has cost a Carlisle woman more than £200.

Corina Kirkpatrick has been convicted for littering as a campaign to keep Carlisle clean continues.

City magistrates heard that the 27-year-old dropped her cigarette on to the floor while walking into The Lanes Shopping Centre from Lowther Street on July 11.

The court was told that she was approached by city council officers, who issued her with an £80 fixed penalty fine.

This, they heard, was not paid despite reminders being sent to her.

Kirkpatrick, of Inglewood Crescent, Harraby, was found guilty in her absence following a hearing last week.

She was fined £120 fine for littering, as well as being ordered to pay a £30.00 victim surcharge and £85 legal costs.

Council chiefs hope the penalty issued will serve as a warning to those who litter - and are responsible for other anti-social behaviour such as fly-tipping and failing to clean up after dogs - that action will be taken against them.

Carlisle City Council has this summer released striking images that have made people pay attention to the clean-up message as part of its Keep Carlisle Clean campaign.

Chris Southward, the councillor who holds the environment brief, said: "Littering, dog fouling and fly tipping are all offences that will not be tolerated in Carlisle and, if necessary, we will pursue prosecutions through the courts.

"In this instance, we’re pleased with the outcome of the case and we hope that it sends out a strong message to residents to Keep Carlisle Clean."

Mr Southward appealed for the public's help to catch mess-makers.

"We need communities and businesses to work alongside us to tackle litter, fly-tipping, dog fouling and other anti-social behaviour," Mr Southward added.

"No community should have to put up with streets and green spaces polluted with dog fouling. Not only is it a health hazard, it is also an unsightly mess.

"There is also no excuse to drop litter or fly-tip. Think twice before you hand over your rubbish to illegal operators - if it’s fly-tipped you face a hefty fine."

To report enviro-crimes, email customerservices@carlisle.gov.uk or call 01228 817200.