THAT other sign of the dark evenings is now very noticeable as I walk into town - a large increase in the amount of dog mess on the pavements.

This is no doubt due to the fact the caring owners of these dogs regard the darkness as their friend and, as they are less likely to be seen ignoring the mess, they just leave it where it is instead of picking it up. It is obvious that the present low level of enforcement coupled with pleas for people to do the right thing has failed miserably.

Surely what is needed is firm positive action.

I would offer a one-off licence fee for every dog of £500 with the money being used to both clear up the mess and pay for enforcement as well.

Anyone without the necessary licence should in my opinion be heavily fined, at least twice as much as the licence fee, and lose the dog as well, with a lifetime ban from keeping dogs.

I would of course exempt guide dogs. I will, however, not hold my breath for any action from our politicians who seem to share their backbone with jellyfish.

Keith Woodland, Galtres Road, York