YEARS of reminding people to clean up after their dogs has had a 'huge impact' and it is now just the rogue few who are causing the problem, according to campaigners.

At the end of a two week long blitz in Blackbird Leys, aimed at stamping out dog mess once and for all, long-term campaigner John Dillon said the 'vast majority' of people were now responsible dog owners.

He said: "It is so much better than it used to be.

"I think we have made a difference, almost everyone I meet now is already carrying bags and the awareness of the impact the mess has is much higher.

"But it is still an issue on the estate, as it is all over Oxford.

"Sometimes it is people who are distracted by their phones or talking to friends and they don't see what their dog is doing.

"Other times, especially at night, there are still people who clearly don't bother and we are now trying to get through to the final few."

Mr Dillon, who is also the chairman of the parish council, has been out patrolling since September 24, along with city and parish councillors, council officers and local volunteers as part of the campaign.

They have been handing out free dog poo bags and speaking with dog walkers.

Residents have previously raised concerns about dog fouling in open spaces on the estate including Blackbird Leys Park and Gillian’s Park.

Mr Dillon added: "Blackbird Leys Park is used by small children and a lot of different football teams. They don't want to be playing in a messy field.

"It is just about asking people to be aware - the dog doesn't know they need to go to the loo.

"The park is for everyone and people shouldn't be allowed to treat it like their own garden. We all live here and we all need to keep it clean and tidy."

Councillor for Blackbird Leys, Linda Smith, said the campaign will be followed by a period of enforcement with police using their powers to issues fines when they see offenders.

Owners can be issued with an £100 fixed penalty notice and, if prosecuted, a court can issue a fine of up to £1000.

She said: “We have brilliant parks and play areas in Blackbird Leys and, when I’m out on the doorstep, something that people often raise with me is the need to keep our green spaces free from dog mess so they can be enjoyed by residents of all ages.

“So I’m pleased that the parish council and city council have once again come together to deliver this targeted action to reduce the nuisance.

“We’ve been out on patrol distributing dog mess bags, telling people that ‘any bin will do’ and warning people about the £100 fine they could face for not picking up after their pet.

“I’m pleased that at last month’s meeting of the parish council PCSOs responded positively to my request that they get on board with the campaign and use their powers to issue fines when they see offenders.”