Terriers Mable, Eric and Ernie, along with mini dachshunds, Bertie and Freddie, were among the first in Ross-on-Wye to see the new signs encouraging owners to clear up after their pets.

The ‘Bag it, Bin it’ campaign, co-ordinated by Herefordshire Council with its community partners, aims to tackle the problem of dog mess across the county. It was launched in Hereford and this week arrived in Ross.

As well as the new signs, which were designed by school children in Holmer, the Council is working with various organisations to encourage responsible pet ownership. This includes microchipping, id tags and regular worming.

Representatives of Herefordshire Council unveiled Ross-on-Wye’s new signage, alongside partners from Ross Town Council, Jill Scamell of Ross Community Clean Up Crew and Chase View Vets.

A new Public Space Protection Order for dog control came into effect in March 2018. Cllr Durkin told the Ross Gazette: “People can now report dog mess themselves via the Herefordshire Council website.” He said that this can be done anonymously but information about regular offenders can help the Council to target areas and times when they will be able to take action against the minority of dog owners who do not keep their dogs under control or clean up after their pets.

Cllr Durkin added: “We are immensely pleased to begin the roll out of “Bag it, Bin it” to the market towns, beginning in Ross, where we hope this launch continues the council’s initiative to encourage responsible dog ownership across Herefordshire.”