DOG walkers have been urged to pick up after their pets after a ‘tenfold’ increase in sightings of waste.

Residents in the town have reported seeing more dog fouling than usual, with waste being left behind instead of being disposed of properly.

This comes at the same time as the UK being on ‘lockdown’ during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, although residents are permitted to undertake one form of daily outdoor exercise.

One resident contacted the Guardian after growing tired of seeing the increase in dog waste left in the town’s streets and walkways.

They said: “Unfortunately, all the ‘extra’ exercise people are taking with their dogs has led to a tenfold increase in dog poop being left on our streets, walkways or tied in bags in trees.

“Could we please encourage people to be proactive and try to eradicate this disgusting problem in our area.

“Let’s try and make a change.”

The increase in recent weeks has also been noticed by Cheshire West and Chester Council, and it is now urging all dog owners to continue to pick up after their pets.

Cllr Karen Shore, deputy council leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, said: “The council has chosen to keep our parks and open spaces open during lockdown so that residents and their pets can enjoy their daily exercise outdoors, as per government guidelines.

“Please can we ask all dog owners to be responsible and pick up after their pet.

“Dog mess can be dangerous, particularly for young children, and we want to keep our outdoor areas safe for everyone during this challenging time.”