Dalmilling pupils hit out at dog poo pests.

Jun 24 2011 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

Dalmilling pupils hit out at dog poo pests.

STOP turning our playing field into a dog’s toilet.

That’s the cry from fed up school kids who are sick of cleaning up after the pet pooches in the community.

And the youngsters at Dalmilling primary are so annoyed about it that they have been writing to politicians in a bid to halt it.

In a letter to Ayr MSP John Scott, Jane Graham and Megan Cannell who are members of the pupil council, said: “Our school football team approached us recently because before playing a recent game on our grass area they had to spend an hour with a teacher and the janitor clearing up dog dirt from the playing field.

“As the summer approaches, more and more of our pupils will be using the grass area for things such as PE lessons and our sporting events.”

The youngsters go on to explain what they have already done to tackle the issue: “We have been discussing what we could do about the dog dirt on our school grass and one of our ideas was to write to our local MSP and Mr David Anderson, the Chief Executive of South Ayrshire Council, to raise this important issue.

“We have asked Mr Anderson whether the council could possibly put up more posters or signs around our school area asking for people to be more considerate when walking their dogs.”

Mr Scott paid a visit to the school to see the extent of the problem for himself.

And he was thoroughly impressed by the youngsters pride in their school.

But dismayed at the selfishness of the neighbours.

He said: “Dog fouling is a major concern for many people across our area and it’s great to see Dalmilling primary pupils taking an active lead in trying to deal with the problem.

“There really is no excuse whatsoever for dog fouling.

“If those dog owners who allow their pets to foul public areas were to show just a little more consideration in their actions then the problem would end overnight.

“This initiative by Dalmilling primary pupils is a great contribution towards raising awareness of the issue.

“And I for one really hope that it will have the positive effect that everyone wants.”