A north London-based junk clearance company is branching out to cater for east London communities and is encouraging households and businesses to refrain from fly-tipping.

Junk Hunters, founded in 2009 by Harsha Rathnayake, will serve the communities of Walthamstow, Wanstead, Letyonstone and Forest Gate, among others.

Mr Rathnayake said: “Unwanted junk leads to fly-tipping which damages the environment.

“There is a real need for a responsible operator in east London who is committed to disposing of unwanted items properly.

“We aim to recycle and reuse as much of the junk we collect as possible. Some gets sorted and sent to the recycling plant, items from house clearances, office clearances that can be reused get taken to charity shops or facilities where the items can be resold.”

The franchise is being run by former financial advisor Chamara Rupainge who says Mr Rathnayake’s story inspired him to follow his lead.