Police officers returned to an alleyway to tackle dog owners who do not pick up after their pets.

Officers visited the alleyway between Shorts Road and West Street, Carshalton, today (Tuesday, February 28).

Although there were no offenders to issue £50 fines to, they talked to dog owners and handed out leaflets about responsible dog ownership.

The action by Carshalton Central Safer Neighbourhood Team follows concerns raised by people about dog fouling.

It is part of patrols which have been carried out over the last two weeks in Carshalton Park, The Grove, Carshalton, and the Shorts Road alleyway.

Sergeant John Bouchard, of Carshalton Central Safer Neighbourhoods Team, said the alleyway was used by a lot of school children on their journey to and from school.

He said: “We want to send out a strong message that failing to pick up after your dog will not be tolerated.”

Police are urging members of the public to report any dog related issues in their neighbourhood; this includes failing to pick up after their pets, welfare or mistreatment issues, where they are bred, dangerous dogs and illegal breeds.

Officers will contact the owners to offer support or advice to help them look after their dog with information from organisations like the RSPCA, Kennel Club and Battersea Dogs Home.

The aim is to make owners aware of their responsibilities to their pet and the wider community.

Police are working closely with Registered Social Landlords who have signed up to share information with police about dog related anti-social behaviour.

For details on the Safer Neighbourhoods Team visit met.police.uk/sutton and click on Safer Neighbourhoods.