DOG owners who don't clean up after their pets are being targeted in a hard-hitting campaign featuring high-profile 'wanted' posters.

South Lanarkshire Council has installed the posters in streets and parks, urging residents to shop irresponsible dog owners.

The move follows this week's announcement by Glasgow City Council, reported in the Evening Times, that a record number of dog owners have been fined for failing to clean up after their pets in the city.

Now South Lanarkshire is looking for help to identify the mucky pups. Offenders face a fine of £40, increasing to £60 for late payment.

Councillor Eddie McAvoy, the council leader, said: "We recognise that here, as indeed nationally, this continues to be a problem and we are constantly striving to raise awareness of environmental crimes in our communities, be it dog fouling, littering in our street, parks and surrounding countryside or fly-tipping.

"So please keep a sharp eye out and, if you can identify the person or describe their dog, identify an area where this is happening at a regular time of day or night, or, if you have information on an area which is causing concern, call 0845 740 6080.

"Only with your help can we target our patrols and catch them in the act. All of our Environmental Health staff, and soon our Community Wardens too, are authorised to issue fixed penalty notices to owners who do not clear up after their dogs."

As well as the 'wanted' posters, the council has also erected signs thanking residents for their help in keeping the streets and other public places clean and tidy.

Every year South ­Lanarkshire Council spends several million of pounds clearing dog fouling, picking up litter, removing graffiti and dealing with fly-tipped waste and abandoned cars.

The council says this money could be spent in a more productive way - such as improving parks, play areas and other ­local amenities.

Councillor McAvoy added: "While enforcement action is an option, it's not the sole solution.

"Everyone needs to play their part in tackling the problem."

stef.lach@eveningtimes.co.uk