RESIDENTS of Bishop Middleham have teamed up with their parish council and Sedgefield Borough Council to eradicate the problem of dog fouling in the village.

Every resident will receive a leaflet making them aware of the law. It will explain about the £25 fixed penalty fine and health risks associated with dog fouling, which include blindness, stomach cramps and vomiting.

An enforcement officer will patrol the village and issue fines to anyone caught.

Anyone wanting to make a complaint about fouling can contact the borough council on (01388) 816166.

A spokesman for the council said: "The aim of this campaign is not to persecute dog owners, but instead to target the inconsiderate and unsociable few that are putting health at risk."