A SUCCESSFUL scheme to combat dog fouling in a village is being extended.

Free dog-bag dispensers were first installed around Oakworth four years ago to encourage owners to clean-up after their pets.

Now it has been announced the initiative will continue, after Keighley town councillors Luke Maunsell and Mark Curtis – who represent the village – earmarked funding through their ward improvement funds.

There are currently five dispensers in Oakworth – at Waterwheel Lane, Lidget, Commercial Lane, Slaymaker Lane and now East Royd.

"We are proud to announce the scheme will be extended to further encourage dog walkers to pick-up after their pooches," said Cllr Maunsell. "We started this work after residents raised dog fouling as a key concern. Since then, it has made a noticeable difference in reducing levels of waste. All the areas where the dispensers are situated came from residents’ recommendations."

Cllr Curtis said: "I am pleased these dispensers and free dog bags have played a role in tackling fouling in Oakworth and long may that continue. Going forward, the new dispenser at East Royd will be monitored and assessed for its effectiveness and – if successful – will remain. We thank residents for their ongoing support."