A Dalry man has carried out a massive clean-up of a popular path after residents became frustrated at persistent fly-tipping.

Gary Caulfield, a local farmer, had not ventured outside of his farm in 38 days due to lockdown but decided to take matters into its own hands after rubbish was consistently being dumped on Velvet Path near Fairliemoor Road.

Posting on Facebook, Gary said: “Tomorrow, I shall venture outwith my farm which I have not left in 38 days, and bag all the rubbish up.

“I have been offered assistance in this, but I would not want to jeopardise other people’s health.

“Should you find yourself walking along the Velvet Path, and if you have space in your own bins, please take a bag home with you.”

Gary told the Herald: “The rubbish was blowing onto my land and I was scared my livestock were going to eat it and choke.

“I wanted to engage with the local community who go up and down these paths to help clear the rubbish if they can. I did it for the greater good.

“I know the council are stretched but I feel like they are more concerned with fining and prosecuting those who dump the rubbish rather than dealing with the issue.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We have been monitoring the situation at Velvet Path and following investigation will be issuing a fine of £200 to an individual.

“We believe a rogue trader, who offers to dump rubbish legally, was involved. Please always check credentials as you will be liable for the fine if it is done illegally on top of what you have paid.”