DOG owners in West Craven who let their pets foul footpaths and parks are being warned they could face a fine of up to £1,000.

A team of 30 specially trained officers have been patrolling the streets in shifts, handing out £50 on-the-spot fines to anyone leaving dog mess behind.

Anyone not paying within 14 days gets a final notice and if they have not paid seven days later they are taken to court and could get a £1,000 bill.

The campaign is being spearheaded by Pendle Borough Council's executive member for the environment, Coun John David. He updated the West Craven Area Committee about its progress on Tuesday.

He said: "The majority of people were very, very good regarding picking up after their dog. It is not as bad as people may think. We don't issue the fines straight away. We get names and addresses so it is not so confrontational."

Members heard one dog owner was fined after he was seen picking up after his pet in Sough Park, but then threw the mess over a wall.

Bryan Thompson, Pendle Council's environmental project and policy manager, said: "This is a major campaign which was launched after a lot of public concern. The campaign was started to ensure we did our best to make people even more aware of the need to clean up."

Coun David added: "We mean business with this. We are determined to stamp it out. It is not one we are going to shy away from and laugh about."

Targeted areas in Barnoldswick and Earby have included Victory Park, Valley Gardens, Clough Mill, Springfield and Hill Top.