A PLEA to smokers, asking them to properly dispose of their butts has been made by Richmond upon Thames Council this week.

Cigarette butts are the most common form of litter discarded on the borough’s streets and open spaces and the council say even unlimited resources could not solve the problem which often triggers complaints from residents and visitors to the borough. This week the council issued an appeal for public behaviour to change.

Cllr David Marlow, cabinet member for environment and planning, said: "We want people to think before they throw litter away. Cigarette butts, in particular, can spoil many areas. The grass terraces at Richmond Riverside are among sites affected, particularly over the hot summer period.

"Other problem locations include outside offices where no-smoking policies are in force. We would urge smokers to put their debris in litter bins after stubbing cigarettes out, or to carry pocket ash trays. It is never acceptable to drop cigarette butts on the ground."The council provides receptacles for cigarette ends outside the Civic Centre, and wants other employers to do the same.