Llandybie Community Council have been discussing ways to stamp out dog fouling from sports pitches following a series of complaints.

Members invited Carmarthenshire Council's Environmental Enforcement Manager Paul Morris to attend a full council meeting on November 29 to talk about the problem at Penygroes Park.

Mr Morris explained that Dog Protection Orders came into force in 2016, which restricts dogs from play areas, and that it is difficult to enforce anti-dog legislation's on sports pitches.

In order for a Public Space Protection Order to be granted in a particular area, which deals with a particular nuisance in a particular area that is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life for those in the local community, residents need to provide evidence.

Talking at the meeting, Mr Morris said: “A referee noticing dog mess on the pitch and reporting it to the club is enough evidence to be passed on to the environmental department.

“Sometimes it is difficult as dogs have the right to walk and the players have right to play on the field.

“To place a Public Space Protection Order, the area has to be defined which sometimes may cause the public some confusion.”

As well as councillors receiving complaints from their constituents, Penygroes Rugby recently took to Twitter to vent their frustration over dog fouling on the pitch.

The post read “It’s becoming a joke every training session and Saturday we have to clean it off the pitch.”

At a previous meeting, councillors shared their concerns for the safety of their constituents especially those who use the facility to play sport.

Cllr Anthony Jones said: “It’s sad that some dog owners don’t respect the dangers of children and sports people.”

Members also discussed the current signage regarding dog folding at Penygroes Park and wondered if a firmer worded sign would be beneficial.

Cllr Peter Roberts said: “There is a sign at Penygroes Park which states 'no fouling'. Maybe we need a more strongly worded sign.

One member added: “Maybe we could get a sign that lists the consequences. It may make people think more.”

“The signage doesn’t make a difference as some owners end up just hanging the bags on branches,” added another councillor.