AFTER visiting Simmons Park for a gentle stroll with my partner yesterday to give the dog some exercise, we were appalled at the state of the park, with the amount of dog mess left by irresponsible owners, when there are enough bins around the park for the dog mess.

At least two years ago there was a gentleman who patrolled both sides of the river within the park area, and I believe the college playing fields, helping members of the public and being highly visible everyone knew he was around.

He was employed by the local council I believe, but where is he now and who is doing the job?

The 'dog warden' did a good job when he was around giving advice to owners and to visitors alike but who is doing it now?

With the school holidays approaching and the hot weather bearing down how bad does it need to get before something is done?

I believe Okehampton relies on tourism and locals and I can remember the area being packed with families enjoying the park and its facilities.

Could someone enlighten a concerned council tax payer on some of these points.

John Manley

by email