Hundreds of warning letters have been delivered to people with untidy front gardens as part of a council crackdown.

Officers from Redbridge Council’s enforcement team gave letters to 18 homes during a Redbridge Action Day in York Road, Ilford.

The team has taken action on more than 600 untidy front gardens since it was launched in December.

Those who receive a warning face a fine if they do not clear up their garden.

Cabinet member for civic pride Cllr Dev Sharma said: “Residents have told us that this is an issue they want us to take action on.

“Unfortunately there are people who live in the borough who have happily let their front gardens become homes for piles of rubbish, rusty cars, overgrown hedges and other waste. This is completely unacceptable.

“People who do this don’t just make an area look untidy they also create an environment that attracts mice, foxes and other vermin. It’s time to put a stop to that.”

The team also patrolled the area with police officers, visiting eight hotels and bed and breakfasts to introduce themselves.

During the action day officers discovered three fly-tips, which were cleared, and gave residents advice on how to report anti-social behaviour and crime.

Officers from food and health safety conducted three on-the-spot hygiene inspections, and the licensing team made spot checks at three businesses.

The R3 service, which provides advice, treatment and support to drug and alcohol users, spoke to 12 street drinkers to give them advice and support and make treatment appointments.

Cllr Sharma said: “This work goes hand in hand with the wider work taking place to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in this area.”

To report untidy front gardens and other issues visit redbridge.gov.uk/reportit