DOG owners in an east Durham village are being urged to clean up after their pets or face fines.

Environmental wardens are targeting Blackhall to reduce the number of dog fouling incidents. The problem is particularly difficult in the West Avenue area of the village, near Blackhall Colliery Primary School.

Under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 it is an offence for dog owners not to clean up after their pets in all streets, footpaths, verges and playing fields.

Anyone failing to do so could face an on-the-spot fine and, if they fail to pay the penalty, they could face a court appearance and a fine of up to £1,000.

Eight people this year have been caught and fined in Blackhall and wardens are warning that patrols are being carried out to reduce the problem.

Ian Harrison, Easington District Council's senior environmental warden, said: "Dog mess spoils the environment and, most importantly, can be a significant health danger - particularly to small children.

"The council is determined to reduce the problem of dog fouling and patrols are carried out daily, with £50 fines handed out to anyone not cleaning up their pet's mess."

Mr Harrison said that since April, more than 60 people had been fined from across the district for the offence.

"We hope that dog owners will take heed and act responsibly but, if they don't, they will be fined."