DOG waste bag dispensers are to be installed at an Otley wildlife area.

Otley Town Councillors have agreed to get three of the containers for Gallows Hill in a bid to tackle a recurring fouling problem.

Free dog waste bags - released one at a time and made of biodegradable corn starch - will be available from the dispensers.

The council's Environment and Sustainability Committee also agreed to buy additional supplies of the biodegradable bags, for dog owners seeking a non-plastic solution to cleaning up after their pets, when it met this week.

They will be on sale in rolls of 50, at a modest cost, from the Otley Core offices on Orchard Gate.

Council Chair Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) said: "Once again we appeal to the minority of dog owners and walkers who continue to let their animals foul our pavements, paths and parks, without cleaning up, to take responsibility.

"Dog Control Orders are now in force and Leeds City Council require dog walkers to carry two bags when walking a dog, while wardens are empowered to check and issue enforcement if necessary.

"The town council will trial bag dispensers in Gallows Hill and provide the bags.

"There will be no excuse for not carrying bags when down there and we hope dog walkers will recognise their responsibility and reciprocate by cleaning up.

"We will also request, again, from Leeds City Council some additional enforcement officer time for spot checks - but won't be announcing the times, for obvious reasons."

The committee agreed a budget of £1,200 to fund the scheme.