Dogs are causing chaos at one of Perthshire’s top walking and beauty spots as lambing season approaches.

Moncreiffe Hill Wood, just outside Perth, has been blighted by problems in recent weeks. Woodland Trust Scotland has been forced to appeal for “better behaved dogs and dog owners”.

The campaign comes at a hugely sensitive time for the area around the wood, where many farmers are currently preparing for lambing.

“Problems seem to be increasing, so we think it is time to steer dog owners back to better habits,” said trust spokesman George Anderson.

“This is a critical time in the farming year and it is essential that sheep and cattle are not disturbed.

“There have been reports lately of gates left open and dogs running into fields.

“We also hear of dogs generally running loose and jumping up on other walkers. This is not acceptable.”

He added: “There are of course many people doing the right thing already and we hope they will be pleased to see good conduct given encouragement.

“It is a fantastic wood and it would be a great pity if ongoing problems stopped the public enjoying it to the full.”