Anti-litter campaigners have criticised 'Coronation Street' for allowing Becky Granger to throw cigarette butts on the ground without punishment.
In a recent episode of the soap, following Becky's arrest after her wedding day, viewers saw Katherine Kelly's troubled character flouting litter laws following smoking sessions on two separate occasions.
According to Digital Spy an anti-littering spokeswoman commented: "It is disappointing that 'Coronation Street' chooses to allow one of its characters to throw a butt on the floor and suggest that it is okay to treat our streets like a giant ashtray.
"We understand the writers are concerned with realism but Becky is a role model to many viewers. We all have a responsibility to keep our local area clean."
Another spokesperson added: "A line could easily be included in the script showing Becky receiving a spot fine for dumping her cigarette ends in the street. This would send the right message."
However, a 'Coronation Street' spokeswoman insisted that Becky's littering was necessary as it helped to show her stress after being arrested on her wedding day.
She explained: "Becky is a troubled character going through a troubled time. She did not think as she threw the cigarette down. Her behaviour is often irresponsible but this isn't the behaviour you'll see from the Street's other residents."
