Concerns have been raised over children’s safety after a growing problem of dog fouling in a Laneshaw Bridge recreation ground.
According to village lengthsman Jim Knowles dog owners have been failing to pick up after their pets for the past couple of years.
It has worsened in the last few months, and is said to be particularly prevalent at the children’s play area, in Emmott Lane.
Now, parish councillors have agreed to clamp down on the issue, and have said that they will be prosecuting offenders.
Mr Knowles, who sits on Laneshaw Bridge Parish Council, said: “It is really quite a big park, and the place is just full of dog dirt. We have got to do something about it.
“90% of people in the village are quite good. It is just a small minority.
“The parish council are concerned for the children around the swings and slide area, and the kids playing football in the park.
“People seen not picking up dog dirt will go to court straight away. We are serious about this. It is just not on.”
Pendle Council’s senior environmental crime officer David Alexander revealed that 55 fixed penalty notices have been issued for dog fouling in the borough over the past year. The council has also prosecuted 20 people.
Mr Alexander said: “Dog fouling is an issue that people, understandably, get upset about. We take it very seriously and do what we can to deter people from leaving their pets’ waste on the streets.
“However, we can’t be in all places all of the time. We are very grateful to residents who report incidences of dog fouling to us.
“It’s particularly helpful if residents can give us information about anyone they see allowing their dog to foul.”
Mr Alexander also reminded dog owners that bagged dog waste can be put in any litter bin.