A trial run of a 'dog warden' to curb the actions of irresponsible dog owners in Simmons Park has been introduced by Okehampton Town Council.

The town council has been examining the problem for several months following reports from the public of increased dog fouling in the park. The sports field has been particularly affected by the fouling.

Chairman of the parks committee Cllr Dave Weekes said: 'It is now becoming a consistent problem, especially up on the football fields. It is not pleasant and very unsafe.

'Being involved with the football club, I see how bad a problem it is. Just last week I was on the pitch before the game, clearing up dog mess. We must do something to stop this.'

Cllr Paul Vachon agreed: 'It is a real problem now. It is extremely anti-social behaviour, and up there with other types of behaviour for its disruptiveness.'

The trial run started on Saturday September 24, and will run for three months. The warden, who will be approved by the Security Industry Authority, will patrol Simmons Park and the surrounding area wearing a high-visibility jacket marked 'enforcement officer'.

The officer will patrol at various times of day, looking to ensure dog owners clear up after their dogs and put the mess into the dog bins provided around the park. The trial period will run for three months at a cost of £500 to the council.

Council bylaws insist that dogs in the park must be kept under control by their owners in Simmons Park. This includes putting dog mess into the bins provided.

The town council is hoping that the 'dog warden' will encourage all dog owners in the park to clean up after their pets and ensure everyone can enjoy the park in safety.