TOUGH new measures have been unveiled this week to crack down on Herefordshire's growing problem of abandoned cars.

Nearly 1,000 vehicles were reported as abandoned in the county last year and the figure is on the increase, according to Herefordshire Council.

Proposals outlined by transport secretary Stephen Byers yesterday include the removal of dumped cars within 24 hours and new powers to track down and prosecute owners and offenders.

"Dumped cars are an increasing eyesore on our streets and a real danger to children who are attracted to them as playgrounds. Too often they are also a target for local arsonists," said Mr Byers.

Andy Tector, Herefordshire Council's head of environmental health and trading standards, has welcomed the measures.

"Broadly speaking we welcome these proposals, there is little doubt that they will make our life a lot easier," he said.

"It will certainly mean a reduction in the amount of time vehicles are left abandoned at the side of the road."

One hundred and ninety six vehicles were destroyed by the council during 2000/01 a total that cost the authority £28,000 in disposal and administration expenses.

"The problem is that the year on year figures are increasing and we are estimating around 270 vehicles will be destroyed in the period 2001/02," added Mr Tector.

Mr Byers, speaking at the launch of the joint DLTR/DEFRA consultation document in which the proposals are outlined, said: "The measures will give local councils increased powers to deal with these cars and get rid of the bureaucratic boundaries that make it easier for people to get away with it.

"It will also reduce the demands on the police and fire services who have to deal with the vandalism and arson resulting from dumped cars."