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Dog owners in Cheshire West and Chester have been urged to clear up after their pooches after an increase in mess has been reported in some areas in recent weeks.

Both the police and Cheshire West and Chester Council have made the plea.

As part of the coronavirus lockdown restrictions, residents are only able to leave their homes for limited purposes, and one of these is a form of exercise, once a day.

As a result, the area has experienced an increase in dog walkers incorporating taking their pooch for a stroll as part of their daily exercise allowance.

But it has led to a rise in dog mess being left behind and a rise in complaints to police.

Officers have advised people to pick up their dog excrement and ease the strain on council services.

The Chester Villages Police Twitter account reads: “There has been an increase in dog walking as part of the daily exercise restriction.

“With this in mind can people please pick up dog poo.

“I have had a number of complaints and council services are stretched also.

“There are plenty of fellow dog owners who will kindly give bags.”

Cheshire West and Chester Council meanwhile is also urging all dog owners to continue to pick up after their pets after the borough has seen an increase in dog mess in some locations in recent weeks.

Councillor Karen Shore, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport said: “The council has chosen to keep our parks and open spaces open during lockdown so residents and their pets can enjoy their daily exercise outdoors, as per Government guidelines.

“Please can we ask all dog owners to be responsible and pick up after their pet.

“Dog mess can be dangerous, particularly for young children, and we want to keep our outdoor areas safe for everyone during this challenging time.”