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Chris Humphreys (with Paddy and Max) and the 'doggie' bags

Dog walkers who regularly visit the linear park between houses on Herristone Road and Brynorme Road joined members of the new Friends of Herristone Park on Saturday morning for a 'doggie bag' giveaway.

Supporters approached dog walkers in the park and gave each one a free poop scoop bag dispenser to encourage everyone to clean up after their pets.

The lightweight plastic dispenser, containing a roll of polythene bags, has a clip that can be attached to a dog's collar or lead while out walking to clear up any mess.

Further 'doggie bag' days will be organised during the summer to press home to pet owners their responsibility to clean up dog dirt and make the park more attractive to children and families.

Chris Humphreys, secretary of the Friends group, said: "It was very encouraging to find most of the dog walkers we spoke to were already acting responsibly.

"Unfortunately, the evidence is there to show that this isn't always the case and we want to persuade all dog owners to respect the environment of the park which is there for everyone to use."