CUMBRAE police say they will crack down on careless dog walkers and stop them 'falling foul' of the law.

The community council has raised the issue of pet owners leaving dog dirt on the streets and have asked police to help them crack down on the anti-social behaviour.

Members say the problem has become so severe that people are now stopping them in the street asking them to push for more enforcement action.

They say the beach has become of particular concern - and calling for signs to be erected warning of stern fines.

Chair Crawford Gillan told the News the issue is one that is being raised more and more at meetings.

She added: "This is an issue which now comes to the table every month.

"I have seen people having to walk on the road to avoid standing in the mess and have even seen one women walking on the road with a pram because she was trying to dodge it.

"This is not a visitor issue, it is local people who are failing to pick up after their dogs.

"It is irresponsible. There is no such thing as a dog poo fairy that will pick it up for you!

"I know the issue has been raised with the police before but I think that should fines start to be issued, it will become clear that this is not appropriate behaviour.

"If we could even get signs put up letting people know that the area is being monitored by the police it might encourage people to pick it up."

Community councillor Lisa Christie added:"People are under the impression that if it is on the beach then it is okay.

"I think they think that the water will wash it away but this is where children play and it still needs to be picked up."

A spokesperson for Cumbrae Police said: "The problem is that we need to catch people doing it at the time in order to issue a fine.

"We will certainly be keeping an eye out for culprits and should people be fined perhaps it will send across the right message that is not acceptable.

"You need to pick up after you dog no matter where it is."