A DOG owner has been fined £350 for not picking up after his pet when it fouled a children’s play area in Gravesend.

Dartford magistrates were told how James Davis, of St Marks Avenue, Northfleet, was seen by a PCSO as he allowed his dog to foul the play area in Freeman Road.

Davis failed to clear it up and then walked away despite being asked by the PCSO to pick up his dog’s mess.

Davis was found guilty of not picking up after his dog. In addition to the fine he was ordered to pay £150 court costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Gravesham Council’s cabinet member for community safety and the environment, Councillor John Cubitt, said: “It is a dog owner’s responsibility to pick up after their pet.

“Gravesham Council will not hesitate in sending cases like this to court and hopes this successful prosecution sends a clear message to other pet owners who do not clear up after their dogs.”