Staff want to build a fence around their school to protect children from dog mess.

Pupils at Denholme Primary are often barred from the playing field because of the filth dogs leave behind.

In partnership with Denholme Environment Group, the school in Monorca Mount has applied to Bradford Vision's Cleaner, Green, Safer Neighbourhoods fund.

School community development manager Sara Myers said: "At times, children cannot go on the fields because it is so bad. They get the mess on their shoes and staff have to clean it off." The aim is to clear the walkway around the school - from Hill Crest to Longhouse - and install a secure fence and gate.

Anne Jay, chairman of Denholme Environment Group, said: "We've already received a grant worth £8,500 and this is the second round of the Cleaner, Green, Safer Neighbourhood funding. It's an awful problem, what with the disease.

"The children can't play out until someone has cleaned the area and I'm sure there have been incidents. If people fully understood the dangers, they wouldn't risk allowing children to play there. If children get dog faeces in their eyes, it can be very, very serious.

"We will be making a case why we should get the money in November."

She said free "pooper-scooper" bags were available from the Denholme Community Contact Point, in the Mechanics Institute.

A Bradford Council spokesman said the dog warden service manager would contact the school.

l Dog faeces carry toxocara caris, a dangerous infection which can affect humans, especially attacking the eyes and causing serious damage. The parasite is found in areas frequented by dogs, such as parks. Dog owners are advised to get their animals routinely treated against the infection.