A Romford resident has been fined over £1,000 after being found guilty in absence at Barkingside Magistrates Court for a littering offence.

On 27 February 2025, a Mr Farrow of Carnation Close, Romford, was observed discarding a cigarette from his black Ford Fiesta while travelling along Longbridge Road in Barking. The incident was witnessed by enforcement officers who saw Mr Farrow repeatedly flicking ash from the vehicle before throwing the cigarette onto the public highway.

Following a DVLA check, Mr Farrow was identified as the registered keeper and confirmed he was driving at the time of the offence. He was issued a fixed penalty notice, which he failed to pay despite reminders. Legal proceedings were subsequently initiated.

On 7 October 2025, the case was heard at Barkingside Magistrates Court where Mr Farrow was found guilty in absence. He was fined £150, ordered to pay £880 in costs to the council, and a £60 victim surcharge, totalling £1,090.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: "Littering is a selfish and avoidable act that blights our streets, no matter how big or small the offence is. 

“We’re taking a firm stance against those who think they can ignore the rules. This outcome shows we will pursue offenders who fail to take responsibility for their actions."