Hundreds of biodegradable dog mess bags have been distributed around Ilkley Moor, to stop people leaving plastic bags at the beauty spot.

Three dispensers, each containing 500 bags made from corn starch, have been installed by the Friends of Ilkley Moor, who plan to introduce six more at the site.

Chairman Owen Wells said: “We don’t have a huge problem with dog fouling – the bigger problem is dog walkers thinking they’re doing the right thing by putting their dogs’ mess in bags, then just leaving them lying around. Slugs and rain will eventually get rid of dog mess, but if it’s in a plastic bag it lasts up to 100 years. One of the most distasteful jobs is picking up these bags.

“Our compostable bags should decay within 40 to 50 days. They’re made of corn starch, which is good for sheep if they eat it, whereas plastic bags can kill sheep. We’re the first organisation to bring these bags to the region. “The bags and dispensers are costing £1,200, a considerable expense for a small organisation like us, but we’re prepared to put the money in if it has the right effect.”

Mr Wells said dispensers had been put up near dog mess bins. “We are continuing to encourage people to dispose of waste in nearby bins,” he said.

The dispensers were installed this week, as Bradford Council launched a campaign targeting dog owners who fail to clean up after their pets. Posters have gone up warning that if they do not clear up they face a fixed £50 penalty or a fine of up to £1,000 if it goes to court.