A TRIAL scheme to curb the actions of irresponsible dog owners in Simmons Park has been extended by Okehampton Town Council.

The council has been examining the problem of increased dog fouling in the park over the last few months, following several reports from the public on the issue.

To help tackle the problem a dog warden has been introduced to the park, visiting at various times of the day throughout each month.

Approved by the Security Industry Authority, the warden patrols Simmons Park and the surrounding area, wearing a high visibility jacket marked 'enforcement officer'.

The officer aims to educate people on how to act responsibly in the park as well as eradicate irresponsible behaviour.

The trial scheme has run for the past three months at a cost of £500, and has helped to reduce the problem in the park.

At a parks meeting on Monday, councillors decided to keep the scheme in place for a further three months, up to the end of the current financial year.

The council is hoping the continued presence of the dog warden will maintain the improved situation, and continue to ensure dog owners continue to act responsibly in the park.

Mayor Maureen McDonald said: 'If there's money in the budget for the scheme, I feel we should definitely have the warden in place for another three months, and look at the situation again at that time.'

Chairman of the parks committee Dave Weekes said: 'It's been effective so far, and I would support any proposal to keep the scheme in place until the end of the financial year.

'The situation has improved, and while it's not perfect in the park, we will keep looking at it and see what else we can do.'