Poster winners scoop a prize
From Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, Councillor Len Cresswell on 21 July 2010
Three Solihull school children have won a competition to design a poster to encourage residents to keep the borough free from dog mess.
Children from local infant and junior schools were asked to do a drawing or poem that was eye-catching and creative and would encourage people to clean up after their dogs.
Two winning posters were selected from more than 150 entries. Zoe Connor, aged 10, from Hatchford Brook Junior & Infant School won best poster design and Lauren Edwards and Paris Baker, aged 10, from Windy Arbor Junior and Infant School won best poem.
The winners each received a £15 Cineworld voucher and £10 Touchwood voucher as well as having their posters being put up around streets, lanes and parks near schools.
The competition is part of the Council’s ‘Don’t be a Mucky Pup’ campaign running over summer. Solihull’s park rangers have also been handing out leaflets and bags to dog owners and posters have been put up in local vets and pet shops.
Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, Councillor Len Cresswell said: “Well done to the three girls for their winning designs and thank you to everyone that entered. This has been a great way to teach school children about the importance of cleaning up after their dogs and hopefully the posters will encourage children and parents to be responsible dog owners.”
Dog foul is not only unpleasant but can be a serious health hazard, particularly to young children, causing Toxocariasis which can lead to blindness, asthma and epilepsy
People found failing to clean up their dog’s mess will be given a Fixed Penalty Notice of £75. If the penalty is not paid within two weeks, or if the person has already been given a warning, then they may be prosecuted and could end up paying up to £1000.
For more information contact Solihull Council on 0121 704 8000.
For media enquiries please contact Olivia White on 0121 704 8373
Email: owhite@solihull.gov.uk