DOG fouling fines dished out to owners in Oxford have more than quadrupled in the last year.

From March to July, Oxford City Council park rangers handed out 18 fines to those who disobeyed the rules, compared to four over the same period in 2011.

The £80 fixed penalty notices were handed out in areas including Blackbird Leys, Cowley, Barton, Rose Hill, Wood Farm, Headington and North Oxford.

Councillor Mark Lygo, board member for parks and sports said: “The vast majority of owners are responsible and clear up after their dog.

“However, there is still a small group of people who think it is acceptable to let their dogs foul without clearing it up, or to allow their animal to get out of control in public place.

“They can increasingly expect to be challenged over their behaviour and to face the consequences for their actions.

“Any owners caught for subsequent offences will be taken to court, and will not only be given a hefty fine, but will also receive a criminal record.”

Fifteen of the fines have been paid, and in two of the cases formal warning letters have been sent to the owners because the person in charge of the dog was under 16.

The other fine has been suspended while a more serious issue of animal neglect is pursued.