PET owners have been warned to beware after a ‘significant quantity’ of rat poison was poured over a village green.

Hart Veterinary Centre in Bicester alerted people with a warning on its Facebook page today, saying the blue granules can cause ‘serious problems for cats and dogs’.

The vets urged dog walkers not to let their pets run over the area until the council had been able to clear it up.

They advised anyone who thinks their pet might have ingested any of the granules to call for advice ‘as soon as possible’ on 01869 323223.