THE purge on rogue scrap metal dealers will continue, bosses at Hyndburn Council yesterday pledged.

The promise was made after the successful prosecution of an Accrington man for operating a scrap metal business without a licence.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Mumtaz Khan, 44, of Higher Antley Street, pleaded guilty before magistrates in Hyndburn after illegally working in Baxenden.

He was given a conditional discharge for three months and ordered to pay £50 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Magistrates also ordered the business, based at unit five in Alliance Street, Baxenden, to shut up shop.

Hyndburn Council’s housing and regeneration boss, Cllr Clare Cleary, said: “Officers had been in touch with Mr Khan on several occasions to inform him that he needed the licence to operate his business, as to run a scrap metal business without one is breaking the law under legislation which came in to force in 2013.

“However, Mr Khan failed to complete his licence application, which meant he was operating in breach of the law leaving the council no option but to take him to court, where he was found guilty and a closure order for his business granted.”

Earlier this year, the council said metal theft in the borough had reduced dramatically.

Cllr Cleary said: “We will not hesitate as an authority to use powers available to put an end to the misery and cost caused by unscrupulous traders and those dealing in stolen metals.”

There is no suggestion Mr Khan was involved in the theft of any metal.

Council leader Miles Parkinson said: “This crackdown will continue because we have seen an improvement in the area but of course we can’t relax.

“We want to make sure the area is well protected because unfortunately, over the years we have seen things taken which shouldn’t have been.”

Residents have also been reminded to secure any metal items or valuables in sheds and garages.