DOG walkers could be banned from the town’s recreation ground, Bovey Tracey Town Council has warned.

The possible ban is just one response being considered to tackle the growing problem of dog owners allowing their animals to run free and foul the parks and playing areas.

The issue was raised this week by Cllr David Elphick at the council’s recreation, parks and property meeting. He said: ‘I am not naturally in favour of banning dogs but some people are taking the mickey.

‘One lady allows her dog to foul the cricket square and I have seen one dog walker let their six dogs run free. Some just drive up, open their car doors and let the dogs run free.

‘When they have been approached and asked to clean up, some people have become most abusive.’

Town clerk Mark Wells said: ‘Our cricketers and footballers use this area, and there are health risks attached to the problem of dog mess.

‘Sadly the town council does not have the powers to enforce any fines for pet owners who let their animals foul public areas. That lies with the district council. All we as a town council can do is request owners clean up their dog’s mess.

‘This is not a measure we wish to set in place. The last time this was considered it resulted in a lot of angry residents.’

At the meeting options were considered, including taking photos of the culprits and their owners to make a ‘chamber of horrors’, or handing out leaflets and putting up additional signs advising dog owners.

They decided there were already enough notices at the entrances to the parks warning dog walkers. There was no point in posting more up around the park where the animals run free as ‘dogs can’t read’, explained Cllr George Gribble.

Mr Wells added: ‘We are now exploring the best way to combat this problem and are in discussion with Teignbridge Council. They have a ten-year strategy which includes a review of dog control. They are able to impose public space protection orders so we will be consulting them about possible enforcement measures.’