A "POO bag" dispenser on Minster Leas is Swale Council's latest weapon in the fight against dog mess.

The free bags were put in by the council's in response to complaints about dog mess in the area and means owners will never be caught short again.

As part of a major clean-up campaign, the Island Neighbourhood Policing Team has also been educating dog walkers about the importance of picking up after their pets, and issuing £80 fines for errant owners.

Tim Oxley, animal control officer for Swale Council, said the issue was raised at a Partners and Communities Together meeting.

He added: "We have been working closely with Minster Parish Council, as well as the neighbourhood police to proactively address this problem and encourage local dog owning residents, to always scoop it, bag it, bin it."

Sgt Stefan Martin, of the Island Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Kent Police and the council do listen to our residents, and work together to find practical solutions to local problems.

"In fact a lot of what we learn comes from local intelligence – so I do encourage the Sheppey residents to report any antisocial behaviour that they witness, including dog fouling, to ensure that we are aware of the problems that are being experienced."

To report antisocial behaviour call the council on 01795 417575, or to report dog fouling specifically call 01795 417850.