Cheese and hot dogs with nails sticking out found in Mercer Park, Clayton-le-Moors

John King noticed something unusual in Mercer Park, Clayton-le-Moors, as he had walked through to go fishing nearby.

The 34-year-old said he was concerned by shiny material sticking out of the hot dog. 

As he got closer he was "horrified" to find there were several sharp nails sticking out of 10 pieces of hot dog meat which had been left in the park.

The online vape business owner said he quickly put the items in the bin and tried to make other dog owners aware of the food.

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He said: "I couldn't believe it.

"A dog could have easily eaten that and become seriously ill or even worse.

"You don't always know what your dog is sniffing at in a park so to put these out, which I believe was on purpose, is disgusting."

Mr King, who is from the area, said he created a Facebook page called DOG Danger Zones Lancashire in a bid to encourage people to share pictures or warnings to help pet owners.

He said: "I got a good response from the group as I've got more than 400 people liking it in a matter of days.

"Someone sent me a couple of pictures of some cheese filled with similar nails which were found in Lower Barnes Street, which is very close to the park.

"I can't believe someone is going round doing this.

"Why would you want to harm someone else's dog? It's beyond me.

"I want all dog owners to be mindful when they are out in and around the park as there could be more of these nails hidden away in food."

Mercer Park in Clayton-le-Moors

Cllr Paul Cox, environment boss for Hyndburn Council, said: "This is rather disturbing to hear.

"I can't think why someone would do this.

"If anyone finds this in a park or a public place I would urge them to contact the police as soon as possible.

"I would hate to think a dog or another animal was seriously hurt as a result of eating something with nails in it."