DOG walkers who leave their pets’ mess on the streets of Cleator Moor have been told they have “no excuse” by the town council.

A new initiative - offering free poop bags and special containers - to combat the problem has been launched by council.

Clerk, Helen Gilmour, said winter is the worst time for complaints to the council about dog fouling because of the long nights.

Mrs Gilmour hopes the offer of free bags will be taken up by local dog walkers

She said: "Dog fouling is something which is a problem right across the county. We've tried something similar in the past and I'm hopeful that this will work because people really have no excuse not to clean up after their dog if they can get the bags for free.

"Winter is the time of year when the council receives the most complaints about the problem so we just want to let people know there are free bags available."

The containers on offer can hold several dog poop bags and can be clipped on to dog collars or the walker's jacket or belt. They are also small enough to fit into pockets.

At a public meeting, councillors agreed to spend £170 on 200 bags with chairwoman Joan Hully saying it was a “proactive way trying to deal with dog mess in the area.”

Copeland Council also launched a campaign earlier this summer to crack down on dog fouling.

Copeland mayor Mike Starkie is leading the crackdown which means irresponsible owners could face fines of up to £1,000.

Bags or containers can be obtained for free if you have a Cleator or Cleator Moor postcode.

To pick up a bag or container from the town council building on the market square, you will have to provide proof of your address.

For more information on the Copeland campaign, visit www.copeland.gov.uk/content/dog-fouling or call 01946 598300