A PARISH councillor says that the illegal dumping of “highly toxic” asbestos in his village is “disgusting”.

Piles of asbestos have been found in three separate locations in and around Bishampton in the last few weeks leaving people concerned.

Twelve sheets of asbestos roofing were dumped in Broad Lane along with a similar amount by Shorthorn Wood. A further pile was also left in Throckmorton Road by the entrance to the rubbish tip.

Councillor Rodney Hodgkins said: “It’s disgusting.

We’ve had stuff dumped in the village before and haven’t seen a prosecution. Obviously some people were doing a roofing job and dumping it.

“I think it’s terrible.

People should be aware this is a highly carcinogenic material which is just been dumped in the village by some ne’er-dowells who really don’t care a whit for people or the material they are handling.

“These are people who really have no social conscience at all who go around dumping this sort of stuff.”

A spokesman for Wychavon District Council said it would need to call specialists to remove the waste but it is hoped it will be taken away this week.

Dave Roberts, Wychavon’s environmental crime officer, said: “We need to put a stop to this irresponsible behaviour. If you see anyone dumping rubbish of any kind, please ring us on our environmental crime hotline on 01386 565018. Evidence is vital to helping us prosecute the perpetrators.

“Residents to check that anyone taking waste from them is a licenced waste carrier. Failure to do so is a duty of care offence and could land residents or businesses with a fine.”