STRAY dogs have been targeted as part of a clampdown on anti-social problems in the Newton Aycliffe area.

Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection team removed 20 stray dogs during January and issued one stray dog warning letter.

It also investigated 11 reports of dog fouling and issued two fixed penalty notices for the offence.

Sixty-eight incidents of fly tipping were reported in January with one householder duty of care letter and two duty of care inspections carried out.

The council team has issued six advisory letters and six litter clearing notices to residents with untidy gardens or yards.

Three fixed penalty notices were given to homeowners who failed to tidy their properties.

The council team also dealt with 19 anti-social incidents and one report of littering during January.