A DOG walker in Lower Lydbrook has been issued with an £80 fixed penalty notice after failing to clean up their pet’s mess on a village pavement.

Officers from Forest of Dean District Council confirmed the penalty was issued following an incident on Wednesday, February 26.

According to the authority, a resident was seen allowing their dog to foul on a pavement in the village without cleaning it up. The incident was witnessed by a member of the council’s Street Warden team, who approached the individual shortly afterwards.

When the warden spoke to the dog walker, it became clear they were not carrying any bags to pick up and dispose of the waste.

As a result, the council issued a fixed penalty notice of £80 for failing to properly remove dog waste.

The council said tackling dog fouling is an important part of keeping communities clean and safe, particularly in busy residential areas and along public walkways.

A spokesperson for Forest of Dean District Council said residents and visitors all have a role to play in maintaining the cleanliness of local towns and villages.

They added that dog owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they carry suitable bags when out walking.

Dog fouling can present health risks and is a frequent source of complaints in communities across the district, with wardens carrying out regular patrols in problem areas.

The council is encouraging residents to report incidents if they witness dog fouling that has not been cleaned up.

Reports can be made through the council’s website, which allows people to flag problem areas or provide information about individuals who repeatedly fail to clean up after their pets.

Officials say enforcement action, including fixed penalty notices, will continue where offences are witnessed by officers.