A new uniformed peril is patrolling the streets of Britain. Butt wardens will begin fining motorists in Durham seen discarding cigarette ends from their cars. They will be armed with camera phones to take pictures of the offending drivers and their numberplates.

The city’s six wardens have powers to issue tickets to motorists who refuse to co-operate by picking up the offending items. Other councils are expected to follow suit in a move that anticipates an expected increase in smokers forced outdoors by the forthcoming ban on cigarettes in bars and restaurants.

Durham council says it has an agreement with the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency which will allow it to trace drivers via their numberplates. The council will also hand out pouches that drivers can use to store discarded butts.

The RAC Foundation criticised the move, saying it added to the hounding of motorists. “It seems like an overreaction,” said Sue Nicholson, a spokeswoman for the motoring organisation. “Surely a quiet word or a letter would be enough.”