Council wardens in Keighley have been given special smartphones so they can spend more time on patrol.

They will be able to fill in forms electronically using the phones rather than returning to the office to write paper reports.

The new process is being introduced by Bradford Council technology experts so the 12-strong Keighley team can work more efficiently and effectively.

Wardens are also receiving extra training to meet ever-increasing demands on their service.

They were recently trained in dog behaviour to help in their duties enforcing the recently-introduced Dog Control Orders, which ban dogs from certain areas, either completely or unless they are on leads.

Wardens will also spearhead the new Green Dog Walkers campaign, which encourages dog owners to clean up their animals’ mess.

The developments were revealed in a report to Keighley Area Committee, which is now responsible for the town’s warden team.

Members heard last Thursday the wardens divide much of their time between parking patrols and checking out environmental problems.

The report adds wardens have a good working relationship with Neighbourhood Policing Teams, including joint patrols and meetings.