Councillors are proposing a new eco-friendly method to deter dog-fouling across Ulverston.

Ulverston Town Councillor Andrew Butcher has put forward plans to introduce stencil signs as a deterrent against dog waste around Ulverston Town Canal.

The issue has been “rapidly worsening”, according to town councillor Andrew Butcher who is heading the campaign.

He said: “This is a problem which we seriously have to look at.

“Although the area has been tidied up in the last few years, it continues to be an issue.

“I feel the only way to deter dog owners is by erecting signs and warnings which prevent them from doing so."

Dog-fouling stencils are a biodegradable sign placed on the pavement to make dog-walkers mindful of their pet's waste.

According to Mr Butcher, the aim of the initiative is to reduce abandoned dog mess in a low-cost, environmentally-friendly manner.

Mr Butcher added: "Stencils on the floor make passers-by aware of the ongoing issue, children can look at it and remind their parents.

"I'm hoping we can get two bins put round there to reduce the problem."

Cllr Mark Wilson, however, said the dog-fouling issue has largely been resolved around the canal path area.

He said: “I recently went around this area and found no traces of dog waste.

“I think that people are finally starting to get the message and are picking up after their pets.

“Hopefully we are able to keep up this more positive initiative.”