A NORTH-EAST beauty spot provided the backdrop yesterday for the launch of a campaign to encourage pet owners to behave responsibly.

Devised by Easington District Council, the two-week project got under way on the sands of Crimdon Beach, in east Durham.

The authority decided to use one of its most popular locations to highlight the need for dog owners to clean up after their pets, as well as looking after their general welfare.

During the responsible dog ownership fortnight, the council will provide 100,000 free poop scoop bags, as well as offering residents across the district free chipping and neutering vouchers for their pets.

To boost the campaign, the council's Pride in Easington team will also be working with local schoolchildren.

At the launch yesterday, a council spokeswoman said: "The campaign aims to encourage owners to take better care of their dogs, as well as keeping the district clean."

During the campaign, the council's street wardens will be stepping up patrols and handing on-the-spot fines to anyone failing to clean up after thier dogs.

Residents are also being invited to pay a visit to the council's Blitz Bus, where advice and information will be available on local vets.

The council has also teamed up with The Dogs' Trust, whose representatives will be handing out vouchers for free chipping and neutering.

The bus will be situated in Dalton Avenue, Seaham, on Monday; Calvert Terrace, Seaham, on Tuesday; Brandlings Way, Peterlee, on Wednesday; Henderson Avenue, Wheatley Hill, on Thursday; and Ocean View, Blackhall, next Friday.

Pride in Easington officer Clare Hubbard said: "We appreciate that the majority of owners in the district are responsible, but we hope this campaign will encourage more people to be aware of the issues involved in owning a pet."