Broads Authority officials have taken 35 people to court in the past four weeks and have successfully prosecuted people for 50 offences related to not paying toll fees.

Anyone using the Broads, be it by paddleboard, a motor cruiser or sailing boat must pay the charge.

But this past year, there has been a significant rise in cases of people avoiding paying it.

The River Bure at Hoveton. (Image: Denise Bradley)

A spokesman for the Broads Authority said: "Late payment of tolls causes lots of extra work and costs for the Authority, requiring robust action to chase those that refuse to pay.

"Prosecution is a last resort once all other avenues have failed to secure payment.

"Unfortunately, this year there has been a significant rise in cases submitted for prosecution.

"Over the last 4 weeks, 35 people have been successfully prosecuted for 50 offences involving unregistered boats and unpaid tolls with over £41,000 awarded in fines, victim surcharges, costs, and compensation.

“The Broads Authority urges anyone having difficulty paying to contact the tolls team at the earliest opportunity.”

© Eastern Daily Press