CHESHIRE’S Crime Commissioner has awarded more than £1,200 to a community dog group - which teaches owners how to look after their pets.

John Dwyer made the grant of public money to People and Dogs, based at Bewsey Community Park Centre, Troutbeck Avenue.

The group, part of Golden Gates Housing Trust, aims to encourage other owners to be responsible when walking their dogs.

Members take a ‘pledge’ to ensure they look after their animal.

Mr Dwyer believes the cash, from his crime prevention fund, will help stop problems like dog fouling.

He said: “Allowing dogs to foul footpaths is disgusting and an inconvenience for everyone in the community and also comes with serious health risks.

“I want to get tough on anti-social behaviour issues like these, and it’s a pleasure to see people taking an active part in addressing the issue."

Richard Bennet, GGHT enforcement officer, said: "P.A.D. sees a number of partners and residents coming together to tackle nuisance dogs and their owners in the Bewsey and Dallam area. It is hoped that in the near future the group will expand and the pledge will be rolled out to all areas of Warrington."

For more information, go to gght.org.uk/pets.