A VILLAGE community has appealed for more dog warden patrols to prompt irresponsible owners to clean up after their pets.

Catterick ward councillors Tony Pelton and Patrick Brennan said there were particular problems on playing fields to the rear of Rowan Court, Ashcroft and Willow View, as well as Swale Lane, High Green and Mowbray Road.

A letter sent to Richmondshire District Council's environment unit also requested more dog waste bins on Swale Lane, around the village sports field and on public footpaths around the racecourse.

However, district council spokesman Sean Little said the authority had received only two complaints from the village and, to date, the dog warden's efforts have focused on spots in Richmond, Colburn, Leyburn and other villages across the area.

Until recently, an average of two fixed penalties a year have been handed to owners who allowed their pets to foul footpaths.

Mr Little emphasised that the figure for this year had increased ten-fold to 20, and more were likely before the end of the municipal year in April.

"There is no doubt word is getting round," he said. "We have been very pro-active on this problem."

Mr Little said dog waste bins were the responsibility of the parish councils, although the district council was prepared to empty them.

"Bins are worth installing as owners do tend to leave their dog waste in them, but owners should realise that if they fail to clear up after their pet, they risk a hefty fine."