Environment detectives will be on the look out for people who drop litter or let their dogs foul public places.

Two new wardens have been taken on to spot and fine people making a mess in Abingdon and Wantage.

Fixed penalty notices, which carry fines of up to £100, will be dished out to people who drop litter, let dogs foul footpaths, graffiti and fly-post.

Vale of White Horse District Council executive member for environmental health, Angela Lawrence, said: "People should not have to put up with problems such as litter and dog fouling, which can have a really detrimental impact on our streets. We consulted with residents and they told us very clearly they want us to take tough action against the minority of people who carry out these unpleasant environmental crimes."

The new initiative follows talks with the public, including the Vale Voice Citizens' Panel, on its plans to introduce penalties.

The council said residents gave strong support for plans to use fines.

The new wardens are Colin Marshall, a former police officer, and Sadie Broadbridge, who previously worked as a neighbourhood warden.