Dog fouling forces temporary closure of woods

Forestry England says it has called in an industrial cleaner to deal with the "health hazard"

Dog owners have been told to clear up after their pets or risk losing one of the county's best-loved walking spots.

Forestry England, which is responsible for some of the country's most scenic locations, said "a few irresponsible dog owners" had created what it called "an awful health hazard" in the woodland at Ostler's Plantation in Woodhall Spa.

It has now temporarily closed the car park and called in specialist cleaning contractors.

In a statement, the organisation warned if the problem occurs again it may have to consider "closing on a permanent basis".

The statement continued: "The best way to keep the forest clean is for visitors to deal with any waste items they bring to the forest.

"Simply carry it with them until they see a bin, which might be when they get home. This way the forest will stay a beautiful place to visit and for wildlife to flourish."

Bosses ruled out providing bins for dog waste, citing concerns over their costs, vandalism and the threat they pose to wildlife.

Lawrence Porter, 77, said he no longer cycles in the area because of the mess left by dog owners

Lawrence Porter, 77, lives in Woodhall Spa and was critical of dog owners who do not clean up after their pets.

He said: "People just throw it down willy nilly and they're selfish. They're not responsible. What is the point of hanging it on a branch? Or leaving it?"

Other people visiting the woods told the BBC they were pleased measures were being taken to prevent rubbish from being left but said they were "shocked" the car park had been closed.

Teresa Atkins described herself as a "responsible dog owner" and said she was angry at the situation

Teresa Atkins, 67, who was visiting the area for the first time, said the situation was "terrible".

She said: "I've got six dogs and I always make sure I pick their poo up. The absolute worse thing is people who put it in bags and chuck in a hedge or hang it on a tree.

"I've no idea what goes through people's minds. It's a bit like littering, as long as it is not with them then it's not their problem."

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