COPELAND Council has warned members of the public they could face a £100 fine if they are caught walking their dog in a town park.

The authority has reminded people that St Nicholas’ Gardens in Whitehaven is a “dog exclusion zone”, and that anyone who brings their dog into the gardens “risks a £100 fixed penalty notice”.

The dog exclusion zone was brought in two years ago.

However, the council said that residents have reported more people bringing dogs into the park and an increase in fouling.

The council added on social media: “We are currently increasing patrols in this area, so please do not walk your dog inside the park.”

Dog exclusion zones are enforceable by both the police and council officers.

More recently, St Nicholas’ Garden was the site of Cumbrian Trader’s Day on June 25.

For more information, visit www.copeland.gov.uk.