A COMMUNITY dog warden scheme in Ross-on-Wye is proving so popular that police forces across the country might be following suit.

Dog walkers in Ross were so fed up with mess being left on paths that they joined a group reminding owners to pick up after their pets.

In the space of nine months a dozen volunteers signed up and now, more than 20 people are taking on the role in Leominster.

Those behind the scheme say they have received calls from a council in the Isle of Wight, while Greater Manchester Police and Avon and Somerset Police who also interested in the idea.

Closer to home, similar volunteers could soon be seen in Ledbury and Hereford.

“The group is essentially made up of cheesed-off dog walkers,” said Ross-based county councillor Andrew Atkinson, who set it up.

Members offer advice and give out bags to dog walkers to clean up their pets’ mess.

Herefordshire Council’s community protection team have been handing out £80 fixed penalty notice fines to persistent offenders.

“It’s not all about fines,” added Coun Atkinson.

"We are trying to take away any excuses given by those who fail to pick up after their pet."

Anyone who witnesses dog fouling can call the council's community protection team on 01432 260000.