FED up residents on a Greenock street are crying foul over the irresponsible dog owners not cleaning up after their pets.

Ivy Siegfried, former secretary of Cowdenknowes Residents' Association, says it is becoming more and more common to find piles of dog dirt on the pavement of Dunlop Street and the surrounding area, including Murdieston Dam.

The 81-year-old says it is a health hazard.

Mrs Siegfried, of Dunlop Street, said: "Anyone could slip in it or walk through and it also causes diseases."

"I came out my house the other day to get a lift from my neighbour and nearly stood in dog's dirt.

"I've always had dogs myself and I've always picked up after them.

"There are dog bins all around the place so there's no need for it at all.

"If you get a dog, you have to be prepared that it's going to do its business and pick up after it.

"I don't think these people should be in charge of dogs.

"It's always been a problem but just recently it seems to be getting worse.

"I'm urging dog owners to be more responsible."

Mrs Siegfried says owners take their dogs for a walk around the dam and give them free rein on extended leads.

Mrs Siegfried said: "They take their dogs around the dam and don't pick up after them and it is everywhere in Dunlop Street.

"There could be a mum with a pram and a toddler in the other hand, they could wade right through it.

"These people just don't seem to care."

Dog owners face a fine of £80 for failing to clean up after their dogs.

Enforcement officers with the council's Environmental and Public Protection service can serve fix penalty notices to offenders.

This can rise to £100 if not paid after 28 days.