This practice is totally unacceptable.

While most Cramlington dog owners are responsible, unfortunately some are not and they are making life a misery for other residents.

Councillor Steve Garrett from the South East Ward reports : “One family contacted me because bags of poo are being thrown into their hedge and garden. This is happening up to seven times a day – yes, a day!”

“Can you imagine that happening in your garden?”

“Naturally my residents are very upset by this disgusting anti-social behaviour. We are lucky that Cramlington has so many open green spaces and therefore it is a great place for dog owners. I am so disappointed to hear of an increase in this gross behaviour – the Town Council has provided a lot of bins across the town, there really is no excuse for it.”

His fellow South East Ward councillor Paul Ezhilchelvan added: “Our enforcement officer is increasing his patrols across town and particularly in areas where this is occurring more often such as Alexandra Park. I hope these irresponsible dog owners take notice because you WILL be issued with a £100 on-the-spot fine.”