DAWN patrols are catching out irresponsible dog owners who don't clean up after allowing their pets to foul the pavements.

Since Wigan Council's crackdown last October, 20 people have been issued with £25 fixed-penalty notices. If they fail to pay, they face prosecution and fines of up to £1,000.

In a bid to catch the offenders, animal wardens now carry out regular early-morning patrols, as well as rounds during varied hours of the day and evening.

Cabinet member for the environment, Coun Brian Strett, said: "Many dog owners are responsible and scoop the poop, but we need all of them to clean up.

"Use a poop scoop or, even better, train a dog to use a corner of your own garden, not a public place. Allowing dogs to foul places where children and adults have the right to walk without encountering nasty messes is very anti-social.

"It is also a serious health risk, especially for children.

"Everyone should now know that it is an offence and that Wigan Council is taking a tough line."