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Angry residents are railing against “inconsiderate” dog owners who fail to pick up their animals’ waste.

Allen Lewis founded the anti-dog fouling group DP Squad seven years ago to help tackle abandoned faeces left outside shop entrances, on pavements and public pathways around Tavistock and continues with his selfless task today.

“I’ve always hated seeing dog mess on the streets and especially outside food outlets, supermarkets etc,” said Allen.

“I got so fed up I said to my late father–in–law Brian Acton, ‘Let’s get some T-shirts done and get brooms, a watering can, disinfectant and do the job properly.

“The moment I see any dog mess around where I live or in town, I fill up my watering can, load the gear in the car and pop out to clean up. The shop owners are always really grateful as are shoppers and locals. The pavement looks so much better scrubbed off and smelling clean.”

A number of followers on the Squad’s Facebook page and the Tavistock Parish Facebook page have taken to naming and shaming alleged perpetrators caught in the act in an attempt to stop the behaviour, following reports of the mess being dragged into shops and stepped on by children on the way to school.

“I think the owners that leave mess are lazy and inconsiderate and how they can walk away from the mess like I see sometimes is beyond me,” Allen said.

“Mothers with small children and pushchairs covered in dog mess on their way to school is so very wrong and dangerous!

“I will continue to clear up and support the businesses and residents of this town. I only wish people were fined, but it is so very hard to get evidence first hand! Like our logo says, ‘We’re watching you!’”

Enforcement officers are increasing patrols in Tavistock to deal with dog fouling.

Councillor Robert Sampson, lead member for commercial services at West Devon Borough Council, said: “Following the introduction of the Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) dog fouling is now dealt with under Anti-Social Behaviour laws.

This means that our operatives can issue an on-the-spot fine of £100 for anyone who fails to clean up after their dog. This can rise to up to a £1000 fine if taken to court.

“Over the coming months our officers will be increasing patrols, and if we catch you allowing your dog to foul and not clearing up after it, we will fine you.

“If members of the public observe anyone not clearing up after their dog, and you have evidence and their details, do please send it to us using www.westdevon.gov.uk/reportit ”