THE public are reminded that dogs must be kept on a lead in Newcombes Meadow in Crediton, and also that owners are responsible for picking up and disposing in provided bins after dog fouling.

Two men were recently seen walking a black dog in Newcombes Meadow, which was not on a lead.

The men also did not pick up after the dog had fouled in the park.

The men and dog were spotted by a local resident who submitted the images to the “Courier”.

As part of the Crediton Town Council “Keep Crediton Clean” campaign, concerning dog fouling, the council says: “Dog fouling is unsightly, unpleasant and can lead to Toxocariasis in humans, which causes serious illness and even blindness.

“Toxocariasis is caused by a roundworm parasite and is spread from animals to humans through contact with infected faeces.

“It usually affects young children because they are more likely to come into contact with contaminated soil when they play and put their hands in their mouths.

“The best way to reduce the chances of anyone being infected is for dog owners to regularly worm their pets and pick up and dispose of faeces immediately.

“To help residents with this, the Town Council has free dog poo bags available. Donations are welcome to help cover the costs.

“Please dispose of your bags responsibility either in a dog bin, a litter bin or at home in your general waste bin. Please do not leave your bags hanging in hedges, on trees, fences or gates.”

Crediton Town Council has ordered 50,000 disposable dog poo bags, which are available from the Crediton Town Council office.

Crediton Town Council has placed posters in Newcombes Meadow warning that dogs must be kept on leads in the park and about picking up dog mess.

It has also placed notices which read “The Dog Poo Fairy does not exist - Clean up after your dog” notices around the town, with a warning that the maximum penalty is a £1,000 fine.

It has also issued Dog Fouling Report It forms, which should be returned to the Council Offices. Alternatively, it suggests people use Mid Devon District Council’s online Dog Fouling Incident Form at: www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/dogs/dog-fouling/ .

Alan Quick