SCHOOLGIRL Sam Kirkup’s catchy slogan will urge dog owners to clear up after their pets.

Pick Me Up Before You Go Go is the message that Durham County Council is using in an anti-dog fouling campaign in running in Chester-le-Street.

Sam, a pupil of Woodlea Primary School, Fence Houses, won a sticker design competition for primary schools organised by Chester-le-Street’s Area Action Partnership (AAP).

It will appear on stickers that will be placed on bins throughout the area to remind dog walkers to pick up after their pet’s mess.

The competition was held alongside the introduction of the area’s Green Dog Walkers scheme.

Green Dog Walkers are responsible dog walkers who carry dog waste bags they can give to other walkers who do not have them.

Derek Snaith, principal community development officer with Chester-le-Street AAP, said: "The AAP has an environment task group who are committed to tackling neighbourhood priorities.

"Dog foul is raised as an issue which impacts on the well being of all of the community, in particular the younger members.

"The competition provided a perfect opportunity to engage with local school children on this subject and we’re delighted with the winning entry."

For more information on the Green Dog Walkers scheme visit www.durham.gov.uk/greendogwalkers