DROPPING a cigarette on the pavement cost a smoker £260.

Sean Morris, aged 21, was seen depositing a cigarette butt outside the entrance of Grenfell House, Widnes, by two Halton Council officers who were on general litter patrol in the town centre.

The officers followed him inside, on December 9, 2010, and asked the building manager if she could identify him.

Morris confirmed his identity and said he lived in Redbourne Avenue, Halewood.

He failed to pay a fixed penalty notice, despite two further reminder letters being sent.

Morris failed to attend Runcorn Magistrates Court on Monday, April 21.

The matter was proved in his absence.

He was fined £150 and ordered to pay £195 costs and £15 victim surcharge.