Police have issued a plea to neighbours after a rise in the number of mattresses being dumped on the streets of Waltham Forest.

In recent months emergency services have been called out to multiple fires started after fly-tipped rubbish has been set alight.

A police spokeswoman said: “Leaving unwanted mattresses or other large items at the front of your property can be dangerous, as these items are highly flammable and easy to set alight.

“Over the past few months, we have had an increase in the number of fires reported to us. Some of those are as a result of mattresses being dumped or left outside homes, then being set on fire.”

Fly tipping is a crime that carries a fine of up to £50,000 or a 12-month prison sentence.

Waltham Forest Direct offers a free special collection service for residential properties. To have an item collected call 0208 496 3000.

If you have any information regarding mattress fires please call 101 or, if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.