Residents in communities across Gwynedd blighted by the problem of dog mess have been voicing their concerns.

Communities in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Llanrug, Porthmadog, Tremadog and Bethesda, are among those who have reported problems.

Particular concerns have been raised regarding the problem on paths used as routes to schools.

Gwynedd councillors in the communities involved were alerted to the problems by concerned residents early in the new year and these concerns were then relayed to Gwynedd’s Street Enforcement and Street Cleaning Departments for action. The affected areas will receive increased visits by Street Enforcement Wardens and Tidy Towns are also involved with raising awareness.

Cllr Annwen Daniels, who represents the Bowydd a Rhiw and Tanygrisiau ward in Blaenau Ffestiniog said: “We as a community have to work together to ensure that everyone realises that failing to clean up after their dog is socially unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The irresponsible minority of dog owners who fail to do this are letting their community down as well as breaking the law.”

Gwynedd Council’s Highways and Municipal Cabinet Member, Cllr Gareth Griffith, said: “Dog fouling on public land is our number one complaint, and winter brings particular problems with the dark early mornings and evenings providing cover for offenders. And as the campaign’s eye-catching poster says, there really is ‘no excuse’ for offenders – ‘Just put the poo in the bin!’”

In Gwynedd it is a criminal offence to take a dog onto designated children’s play areas, school grounds, sports pitches and certain beaches (April to September) or to allow your dog to foul any public space. Offenders are liable to receive a £100 fixed penalty, with failure to pay potentially leading to a court summons and a fine of up to £1,000.

See this week’s north editions for the full story, in shops and online on Thursday