CHILDREN across West Devon have joined the campaign against dog fouling with an anti-dog fouling poster competition.

West Devon Borough Council's dog warden Murray Cowley teamed up with Devon and Cornwall Police Community Support Officer Sarah Deacock to visit three local schools to talk about the issue and encourage the year 4 and 5s to create a poster to discourage residents from allowing dog fouling.

More than 50 entries were received from creative pupils from North Tawton Community Primary School, Okehampton Primary School and Hatherleigh Community Primary School.

The competition was won by Anna Moyse of Hatherleigh Primary School, who has been awarded 12 months' family entry to Plymouth Marine Aquarium.

There will be a ceremony tomorrow (Friday) at Hatherleigh Primary School with the Mayor of Hatherleigh, Cllr Andy Gilbert, who will congratulate Anna and her fellow classmates on their efforts in clearing up the community.

PCSO Deacock said the competition had been very successful with more than 50 posters received.

'The proof of the pudding will be when we circulate Anna's winning poster, which really faces the problem head on. We will put it up in areas where we have had problems with dog fouling and we really hope that this will help to deter offenders,' she said.

Cllr Robert Sampson, chairman of the borough council's community services committee, said: 'It is fantastic to see children getting involved in the fight against dog fouling and being so creative in the process. Children are passionate about looking after their local area and make excellent ambassadors when it comes to spreading the word about clearing up in our community.'

Second place was awarded to Luke Bennett of Okehampton Primary School, while Lewis Ayley, also of Okehampton, scooped third place.

Both boys received a family day pass to Plymouth Marine Aquarium and a cuddly toy.

The poster will be used at park events — residents can also show support for the campaign by displaying the poster. 

People who allow their dogs to foul in West Devon could get an on-the-spot £75 fine with a maximum penalty of up to £1,000 if the case goes to court.