DOG owners in Quarry Bank are being asked to paws for thought and clean up after their pets.

Following complaints raised by users of Stevens Park, a campaign has now been launched by Dudley Council.

The council has been stencilling the floor of the park, as well as the pathway which links Thorns Road to Park Road, with distinctive warning signs to remind people of the importance of a cleaning up after their dogs.

Non-permanent warnings, which wash off over time, are being spray-painted onto the pavement in key areas and people face fines of up to £1,000 and prosecution through the courts if they are found guilty.

Councillors were quizzed on the issue at a recent Netherton, Woodside and St Andrews and Quarry Bank and Dudley Wood community forum, who asked for it to be highlighted in a bid to get people to clean up after their dogs.

Councillor Hilary Bills, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “I’m sure the vast majority of people love their community as much as we do and clean up after their pets.

“People have a right to walk along the street and play in parks without fear of treading in disgusting mess left by dogs.

“We would rather people cleaned up after their dogs than us having to prosecute them. The stencils do not permanently mark the pavements so are environmentally friendly and hopefully will be a good reminder for people.”

To report dog fouling in areas across the borough email Dudley Council Plus at dudleycouncilplus@dudley.gov.uk, or call 0300 555 2345.