Lydia Farrell, 33, faced a £150 fine from Ealing Council for leaving fallen apples outside her home, considering it “fly-tipping.” Despite labeling them as “free eating apples,” she received a letter demanding payment or court action. Expressing disappointment, Lydia highlighted encountering actual fly-tipping daily near her home. The west London council, responding to online backlash, pledged to withdraw the fine. Lydia, feeling unfairly penalized, cited the irony of being fined for a good deed amid real crimes. Ealing Council’s leader, Councilor Julian Bell, contacted Lydia promptly, acknowledging residents’ positive intent. Apologizing for any inconvenience, a council spokesman stated their commitment to a clean borough. Lydia, undeterred, plans to share more apples but might secure them differently.
