A COUNCIL is stepping up its fight against dog fouling so animal owners don't do the dirty on moves to encourage tourism.

Ribble Valley Council already has 20 dog waste bins dotted around the borough, but will provide an extra 20 in its battle against dog fouling.

The council's environmental health manager James Russell has written to parish councils, asking for suitable locations.

He said: "We have money set aside for tackling dog fouling and feel the provision of extra bins is the next step. The existing bins are heavily used and clearly having an effect.

"We have been fighting dog fouling in public places for many years and large grassed areas, plus tourist hotspots, are the main problem areas.

"I have written to parish councils asking for their suggestions for proposed sites for the new bins and have received numerous responses.

"We are in the process of evaluating those and will be drawing up a list of potential sites to present to our community committee for approval."

The Ribble Valley has been battling against dog fouling in public places for several years and has issued 11 on-the-spot £50 fines.

Dog owners whose pets are caught in the act a second time risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

The council also employs a dog warden, who undertakes routine patrols in areas where there is a specific problem and issues the fixed penalties.

Mr Russell added: "The majority of dog owners are responsible, but there is always a minority that causes a problem."

The new dog waste bins, which will cost £250 each, should be in place by early in the New Year, subject to approval by councillors.