Vale of White Horse District Council
Abbey House, Abbey Close,
Abingdon, OX14 3JE
Email: comments@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Telephone: 01235 520202

Vale of White Horse District Council

Watchfield man fined for dog fouling

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Friday 20 November 2009

A man from Watchfield has been fined after he was caught red handed allowing his dog to foul on a playing field.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was spotted by vigilant environment wardens from the Vale of White Horse District Council at Watchfield recreation ground in Major Road on 18 November.

He was walking his two dogs across the football pitch when one of them fouled on the grass. He failed to notice this, despite his dog being on a lead and carried on to the next field. He was then approached by environment wardens Colin Marshall and Gary Marcham.

The dog mess was pointed out to the man and he was given a £50 fixed penalty notice which he has since paid.

Colin said: "Dog fouling is a big problem and it is important that owners take responsibility for their pets. We have the power to issue fixed penalty notices for £50 and if the case is prosecuted in court, then this may incur a fine of up to £1,000 so it really isn't worth it."

Angela Lawrence, Executive member for Health and Housing at the Vale Council said: "This man has admitted his error and I hope he learns to take responsibility in future. Dog fouling is not only disgusting, it is a public health hazard and we will take a tough line against anyone caught."

If you wish to report anyone who fails to pick up their dog's mess please report details of their description, date/time it happened and their name and address (if known) to Vale of White Horse District Council, Abbey House, Abbey Close, Abingdon, OX14 3JE, or phone 01235 520202.