CONCERN over dog fouling at a country park has prompted an appeal for people to report owners who fail to clean up after their pets.

The problem has increased noticeably across 100-acre Summerhill in recent weeks and led to fears that it is creating a potential health hazard whilst also threatening to ruin people’s enjoyment of the site in Hartlepool.

Adam Reah, Hartlepool Council’s outdoor activities co-ordinator who is based at the visitor centre, said: “It is sad that this problem is occurring at a time when the site has never been more popular.

“We acknowledge that many owners do respect the site, but a significant number of irresponsible people also think it is acceptable to leave their dogs’ mess for someone else to clean up.

“Such an attitude is totally unacceptable and inexcusable, especially when we advertise the fact that free disposal bags are available from the visitor centre and we have a number of dog dirt bins dotted around the site."

The appeal for members of the public to report offending dog owners has come from Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher, Councillor Marjorie James and Councillor Allan Barclay whose Manor House ward borders Summerhill.

Council enforcement officers patrol Summerhill and dog owners caught failing to clean up will receive £80 fixed penalty notice fines.

To report offending dog owners, people should call 01429-523333.