A RUGBY coach has slammed irresponsible dog owners for failing to pick up their pets’ mess from the club’s pitches.

Barry RFC coach Paul Richards, who has been part of the club for 30 years and now coaches the U16s, said it was ‘disgusting and unnecessary’ for players to have to clear the pitches themselves before every training session or game.

"We all have to walk in a line like a forensics teams and pick up the mess," he said.

"We are picking up bags of mess, as it’s dotted around the pitches. It’s a constant pain."

He added that the pitches were in constant use, with junior and senior teams playing on the weekend, as well as training on week nights.

Dad-of-three Paul, 40, said he was concerned about the health and safety of his players.

"This puts hundreds of children at risk – as well as adults - from infection and disease," he said.

"If you have a dog, always bring a few bags to pick up the mess, then deposit them properly in the bins.

"We could do with more bins around the pitches, but people need to be more educated about the dangers it can cause and the risk of infections.

"I have a dog myself and pick up the mess, so why can’t other people do it too?"

Clifford Parish, operational manager for waste management and cleansing at the Vale Council, said: "Not cleaning up after dogs is both illegal and anti-social.

"Dog walkers have a legal responsibility to clean up after their animals.

"If they don't, and there is sufficient evidence of those guilty of the offence, they will be prosecuted by the council; whether a Fixed Penalty Notice of £75, or through the Courts where guilty parties face a fine of up to £1000.

"Unfortunately our enforcement officers can't be everywhere and we need our residents to help us eliminate the appalling, lazy and criminal attitude of some dog walkers, who clearly have no regard for anyone other than themselves," he added.

"If anyone witnesses this they should never approach the criminal, but take what details they can and contact us on 01446 700111."

Bags for dogs mess are available free from the Vale Council Civic Offices.