LITTER control officers have been kitted out with distinctive uniforms to help tackle dog fouling.

West Dunbartonshire Council is also giving its litter officers online reporting forms so culprits can be challenged and dog mess cleared more quickly.

In addition, the council is exploring the possibility of establishing closer links with Police Scotland officers to carry out joint patrols.

Councillor David McBride, convener for Environment Services, said: "Dog fouling is one of the biggest community issues in West Dunbartonshire and we are responding in every way we can think of.

"Our litter control officers have new corporate clothing to make them more identifiable to the public, both as a deterrent to irresponsible owners and also as a reassurance to those who want to see us taking visible action."