A man has been slapped with a hefty fine for dropping a cigarette butt. 

Nick William had his case heard in court more than a year since the offence took place.

Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court heard how William dropped the cigarette butt in Shirley Road and left it there on October 20, 2023.

This was in breach of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

William, of Stanton Road, Southampton, was found guilty of a charge of throwing down, leaving, or otherwise depositing litter at court on May 30.

He was handed a fine of £220 and must pay a surcharge of £88.

William was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £168.75, taking the total amount of payment to £476.75.

This must be paid in full by June 27, the court heard.

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A second person was sentenced at the same court on May 30 for dropping a cigarette butt.

Alison Johnson, 43, was caught dropping a cigarette butt outside of TK Maxx in Southampton.

The offence occurred on October 13, 2023.

Johnson, of Canon Place, Southampton, was found guilty of a charge of throwing down, leaving, or otherwise depositing litter.

She must pay a £220 fine, a £88 surcharge and prosecution costs of £168.75.