“LET'S tidy the place up – I am not a whinger normally but this is absolutely disgusting” – the words of the chairman of a community group who is sick and tired of dog excrement near his home.

Brian Sanderson set up the Stratton Dog Poo Watch last month to raise awareness of what he considers the serious problem of dog owners not picking up after their pets.

And he believes that the problem is so bad in a footpath off Gallows Pound Lane in Stratton, Cirencester, that CCTV cameras are needed to help name and shame the dog owners.

“CCTV cameras in areas of concern would help or if dog walkers who own smart phones could take photos of the culprits.”

“Let us get Stratton a dog excrement free area," said Mr Sanderson.

He explained that front gardens and lawns in Stratton Heights and Tinglesfield were among the worst affected areas.

Mr Sanderson, 65, said he would be sending pictures he had taken from his bedroom window of dog walkers not picking up after their pets to the district council's dog warden department.

“Warning to all dog walkers you are being watched,” he said.

He explained that residents could help identify the culprits by posting pictures and comments on the Stratton Dog Poo Watch facebook page.

The group has received the backing of Cotswold district and Cirencester town councils.

“A representative from the environmental department (at CDC) stated that if the culprits are named and shamed then there will be a fixed penalty fine of £75. If they are taken to court this could be a fine of up to £1,000," Mr Sanderson said.

"Not picking up dog poo in public areas is an offence and until someone is fined the situation will not change."

More information can be found by searching for Stratton Dog Poo Watch on facebook.