The people of Barnes have joined forces with Richmond Council to encourage dog walkers to clean up after their pets.

Last year the Dog Fouling Richmond Group presented a petition to the council after an increase in dog poo being left on the streets, and has launched a campaign to enforce the law and encourage dog owners to pick up after their pets.

As part of the campaign, floor stencils have been installed in a pilot area in Barnes to highlight particular hot spots and remind pet owners to be more responsible.

Councillor Virginia Morris, cabinet member for the environment, said: “There is no excuse for not cleaning up after your dog – not only is it unsightly and inconvenient, there are also health risks associated with dog faeces which can be harmful to people, especially children.”

Dog owners who allow their pets to foul on the street and do not clear it up could be fined.

Fern Gray, from the Richmond Dog Fouling Campaign, said: “We are positive and encouraged that together we can go some way in changing the attitude and culture of less responsible dog owners to act within the sanctions of the law to pick up after their dogs to keep the environment and community a safe and clean one for us all to enjoy.”

For more information about dog fouling in the borough, visit richmond.gov.uk/dog_fouling.