Abandoned cars drive.

TAXPAYERS should no longer have to pick up the bill for the disposal of abandoned cars.

Bridgend County Borough Council is to trace and charge drivers who leave their vehicles a fee of pounds 185 to cover the authority's costs.

With more than 1,000 cars abandoned each year, the move is part of a wider strategy to reduce the number of rusting vehicles, which includes strengthening links between the council and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.

Coun Clive Davies said: ``The irresponsible people who abandon cars are taking money out of all our pockets and this is fast becoming an increasing problem.

``They simply walk away and expect council taxpayers to pick up the tab.

``Abandoned vehicles can be dangerous to the public and are often vandalised or burned out after they have been dumped.

``This initiative will make sure that owners who abandon cars don't escape from their responsibilities.''