A COMBINED-council effort to patrol the Wokingham borough for illegal fires is set to end in a fortnight, it was announced this week.

The Public Protection Partnership, the combined partnership between the Wokingham Borough Council Bracknell Forest Council, and the West Berkshire Council, released a statement on Tuesday, October 13, stating that they will be patrolling the borough, following a rise in illegal bonfire reports in certain areas.

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Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment said: “Our teams are working with colleagues across the Council, and will not hesitate to use the powers available on the person responsible, should officers come across illegal burning.

"This exercise will provide officers with the valuable intelligence needed to help target repeat offenders.

“we do need the public’s help because it is essential to get evidence.

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"If you are experiencing bonfire smoke that is preventing you from enjoying your own home, or that you are aware of illegal burning taking place, please contact us."

To report an illegal fire, visit publicprotectionpartnership.org.uk/make-a-service-request/. For more information vist publicprotectionpartnership.org.uk/news-articles/wokingham-campaign-on-bonfire-smoke/.