I WAS recently taken by the images on TV of fairy doors at the base of trees in woodland near Crewkerne in Somerset.

It was heartening therefore, while walking today on the footpaths of the Malvern Hills to note that the same spirit abounds in Worcestershire.

Alongside every path and hanging from the boughs of trees were gaily coloured bags of dog excrement.

I must therefore offer a big thank-you to the dog owners involved for adding to the enjoyment of my ramble at no great inconvenience to themselves.

Some people might say the practice of wrapping up their dog’s mess and leaving it for others to clear up is both ignorant and thoughtless, but I would quote the words of the immortal Terdsworth: "I think that I shall never view a poem lovely as a poo".

George Smith

Malvern