THERE'S a new 'PUP' on the block when it comes to fighting the continuing, unpleasant problem of dog mess on the streets and park of Tavistock.

Tidy Tavi, the local volunteer group, which has already contributed much to cleaning up unsightly litter in the town, has now started a new initiative, PUP (Pick up Poo).

PUP has the backing of West Devon Borough Council, the dog warden scheme, DP Squad and Tidy Tavi and will be officially launched on Easter Saturday, March 30, in Bedford Square.

The scheme provides free poo bags and holders for dog owners, with the bags sponsored by local businesses Specsavers and Ron's Pet Supplies.

They clip onto dog leads so that bags are always available when dog walking. Westmoor Veterinary Centre is providing 'high-viz' yellow jackets for volunteers to wear while distributing the poo bag holders around Tavistock.

Tidy Tavi member Sylvia Agnew, who has two dogs herself, said the idea came following an article in the Times which said that the Meadows may be closed to dog walkers if the poo problem persisted.

She said: 'It's about loving where you live and this is a way of helping to keep Tavistock the beautiful place it is.

'We are appealing not only to those dog walkers to join us but for those who do not think about clearing up their pet's mess to take advantage of the free poo bags and holders.

'With plenty of volunteers on the streets, wearing PUP jackets, ready to hand out the goodies, there will be no excuse for not picking up after your dog. Will irresponsible dog owners dare to leave a deposit?

'So, instead of grumbling, come on residents who want clean streets, use this opportunity to be pro-active and volunteer to help.'

PUP is encouraging more people to ask dog owners they see not picking up after their pets to request them to do so in a friendly way and if they refuse to do so report them, if necessary, to the local authority.

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the borough council's community services chairman, said: 'With the borough council resources being so stretched, we really appreciate local residents getting involved in supporting the work of our dog warden. This is a prime example of localism in action.'

if you would like to join the PUPs volunteers go along to the launch in Bedford Square on Easter Saturday or email [email protected]">[email protected]