Mr Carl Ryder, managing director of Event Staging and Structures Ltd at Unit 2, Ouzledale Foundry, admitted causing dark smoke to be omitted from his premises contrary to the Clear Air Act 1993.

Mr Peter Frost (prosecuting on behalf of Pendle Council) said: "At 11-30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 25th, an environmental officer saw black smoke being omitted from the premises. She saw various items burning in a steel burner. She spoke to the person in question, a staff member of Mr Ryder's, and informed him his actions were inappropriate."

Mr Ryder, who appeared at court on behalf of his business, said: "I sincerely apologise for what happened. I was not present at the time but have to be made partly responsible as it is my company. The gentleman who caused the smoke has now been dismissed as a result. We will not be having any fires of any sort again as it is not worth the risk."

Mr Ryder was ordered to pay £300 costs, a £200 fine and a £15 victim surcharge to be paid within seven days.