I WOULD like to express my utter disgust and contempt at irresponsible dog owners who still think it acceptable to let their precious mutt foul or footways.

When will these people learn? Do they not read the signs the council puts up?

Walking to the nearby train station is like an obstacle course first thing in the morning and somewhat stomach churning.

The signs clearly state "pick it up and take it with you". For those of you who do not or, more to the point cannot be bothered, what is your problem?

If you cannot be responsible for the pet, why have it in the first place?

I probably speak for a majority of the nation out walking, when I say I do not want to face this sort of mess on the pavement at any time.

I do not want it all over my shoes and I certainly do not wish to subject my fellow commuters to this sort of smell early in the morning.

The trains are bad enough as it is.

This is not an attack on those people who are responsible by any means, just on those who do not seem to give a moment's thought to people out walking or kids playing.

And before the do-gooders get agitated and accuse me of being a miserable old bloke, I am not, I am young and an animal lover.

The oxford dictionary says a footpath is "a path for people to walk on". It is a clue for these people, look it up sometime, unless of course you are out with the dog. Or better still, train the animal to use your own path at home and see how you like it.

Be responsible, please.

ANDREW WELCH
Address supplied