Six people have been given a verbal warning for breaking a new by-law in Ashford town centre, for handing out leaflets or flyers without a permit.

They escaped a £75 fine for breaching rules that came into force on New Year’s Day.

Ashford Borough Council adopted the by-law in an effort to reduce litter on the streets.

Anyone wishing to distribute leaflets must apply for a permit at a cost of £25.

Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act revealed that 14 people or organisations have applied for permits within the first six months of the law coming into effect, generating £350 income for the council.

Most of the leaflets handed out legally were for events, some were for religious and charitable purposes.

Out of the 14 permits applied for to the council all were granted.

To apply for a permit go to http://www.ashford.gov.uk/environment/vandalism_and_littering/unauthorised_distribution.aspx