Irresponsible dog owners in Otley and Yeadon are being warned to clean up their act – or face prosecution.

Councillors Ryk Downes, Colin Campbell and Sandy Lay (all Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) have helped secure extra warden patrols in the area along with funding for more prominent dog fouling penalty warning signs.

The notices, like the one pictured above by the play park off Riverdale Road, Otley, are intended to spell out the risks to persistent offenders.

Coun Downes said: “The vast majority of dog owners are responsible, but there continues to be a few who flatly refuse to do the responsible thing.”

The councillors have been working with concerned local residents like Lisa Gustafson, of campaign group Muck Up, to tackle the issue.

North Avenue resident Lisa said: “Recently there has been an increase in amount and frequency of littering and dog mess in our neighbourhood.

“Many people who live in the area are extremely frustrated with those owners who refuse to clear up after their dog.

“Awareness is one thing but maybe the time has come for a bit more enforcement.”

Coun Lay has advised the group on how to access funding for a scheme to use chalk paint to highlight dog mess and helped North Avenue resident Lisa produce leaflets on Responsible Dog Ownership, along with a letter to residents.

He said: “Muck Up do a marvellous job of raising awareness but it seems apparent that the time for awareness raising needs to be supplemented by more enforcement.”

“If your area needs a sign please let us know.”

Coun Campbell added: “These new signs warn of the consequences and inform residents how to report this anti-social behaviour.

“The call centre will also give residents advice on what to do and when, so that those responsible are caught.”