Rogue scrap metal traders could face prosecution after new scrap metal laws were introduced.

The laws were introduced to combat scrap metal thefts which blight local communities.

Scrap metal dealers now need a licence from their local council to collect, buy or sell scrap metal.

The licence is required for both door to door collectors and scrap metal sites.

Both West Dorset District Council and Weymouth & Portland Borough Council are responsible for issuing the licences in West Dorset, Weymouth and Portland.

There are an estimated 1,000 metal thefts a week in the UK, which is said to cost the country around £220 million a year.

Cllr Robert Gould, Leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “Scrap metal thefts are a scourge on the community, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure.

“What these new laws will mean is that traders will need to prove their suitability to trade scrap metal to the council, which will reduce the likelihood of scrap metal thefts across the district.”

The new law also means that dealers must verify the identity of the seller.

Cllr Geoff Petherick, Brief Holder for Community Safety at Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “The new laws will allow the council to refuse or revoke a trader’s licence if they are deemed unsuitable.

“Scrap metal thieves cause distress and misery to people within our community and this new law provides us with more powers to tackle these people.”

The council’s licensing team will be working with Dorset Police to enforce the new legislation.

For further information contact Weymouth & Portland Borough Council on 01305 838000 or West Dorset District Council on 01305 251010.