Beware all pet owners who fall foul of the law! A new undercover poop scoop team will be out to catch irresponsible early-morning dog walkers who fail to clean up after their canine friends.
Southend Council's park ranger service is clamping down on guilty owners who use the public open spaces as an illegal dumping ground for animal waste.
And some offenders may even face prosecution.
Council officers said the rangers will not only be approaching dog walkers during normal opening times but will also be introducing the dawn patrols.
From around 6am, patrols will take place to target the small minority of inconsiderate dog walkers who think the earlier they walk their pet, the less likely they are to be caught in the act.
It will mean that public open spaces, such as parks and recreation areas, in the town will no longer be a safe bet for a sneaky daybreak toilet visit.
Council recreation officer Paul Jenkinson said: "The majority of dog walkers are responsible and do clean up after their animals.
"Unfortunately, there are a small number of people who have not learned from campaigns run by the council on good ownership and still leave dog mess on the ground."
Published Thursday, April 10, 2003
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