RYEDALE district council are set to launch a new scheme to combat dog fouling.

The council will launch a ‘Green Dog Walkers’ scheme to encourage dog owners to pick up after their animals.

Those taking part in the scheme will receive a free dog collar and tag.

Over 95 people have already signed up to the scheme after a successful pilot across Ryedale.

Margaret Wallace, programme director for people and resources at Ryedale District Council, said: “The Green Dog Walkers scheme is a fantastic community initiative to encourage responsible dog ownership.

“Unfortunately, we do receive some complaints about dog fouling in our district and this scheme is one of the ways we are tackling this issue.

“It has been really well received by our staff and the public in the pilot we have been running and we’re thrilled to now launch it across the district.

“I would encourage all our dog owners in Ryedale to take the pledge and sign up to this scheme.”

More information about the Green Dog Walkers scheme and how to join, can be found on Ryedale District Council’s public consultation and engagement platform Commonplace here: https://ryedale.commonplace.is/en-GB/proposals/green-dog-walker/step1