THE long-running problem of dog poo in Port Meadow is keeping the cows away and having an impact on the habitat.

The Wolvercote Commoners community group will continue their efforts to warn dog walkers of the effects of leaving their pet's mess behind by providing leaflets at the entrances to Wolvercote Common, which merges with Port Meadow.

The group's latest newsletter said it was not just a case of dog owners not being prepared to clean up after their pets but a lack of knowledge of the dangers to grazing cattle.

It said farmers were reluctant to bring cattle onto the common - for fear of them becoming infected - and that cattle grazing was vital for flora and fauna and the future of the area.