FRIEND or foul, Holsworthy and parishes have received their anti dog-fouling signs and they will hopefully be installed soon.

Service improvement officer for Torridge District Council, Chris Dobbs, told the Post that Holsworthy town clerk Vanessa Saunders has been given several anti dog-fouling signs that are to be distributed and placed in areas deemed appropriate.

Torridge District Cllr Ken Carroll has supplied six dog fouling signs, which indicate enforcement patrols are being carried out, to Holsworthy Town Council, six to Holsworthy Hamlets Parish Council, and three to Sutcombe Parish Council.

Vanessa has offered to distribute these among the parishes and was told this was fine provided she informs the separate parishes that the signs must be displayed on public property only.

An environmental protection officer from Torridge District Council will be visiting the town and parishes at a later date with the intention of briefing the parishes on what more they can do to prevent dog-fouling problems.

The visit will hopefully inform the town council regarding dog fouling and dog control issues as to what, if anything, can be done to improve the situation.

Vanessa said: “The town council welcomes responsible dog owners to Holsworthy but unfortunately there are a number of people who do not control their dogs appropriately and also let their dogs foul in public areas.

“It is hoped that the signs, kindly supplied by Cllr Ken Carroll, will assist in deterring dog fouling within the town.’

The hope is that the signs will be put in place in various areas of Stanhope Park, Holsworthy, in the coming week.

To keep the town and parish a ‘dog friendly’ area the public can also report irresponsible dog owners to the Animal Welfare Officer, Carl Caswell on 01237 428855 or email [email protected]