SOUTH Lakeland will see a new campaign against litterbugs, graffiti artists and dog fouling this spring with a team of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) learning how to use fixed penalty notices at a special training session.

The half-day training course at Kendal Town Hall was designed to introduce new rules and procedures to PCSOs who will be enforcing the regulations.

It follows the introduction by the Government of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act last year, which gives South Lakeland District Council new powers to take action against a range of anti social behaviours.

The link up between SLDC and the police means new technology will be used to log complaints from residents and community groups so that "hotspots" for particular problems can be identified and action taken.

"Because of the environmental health issues caused by things like dog fouling and litter, we want to create a cleaner, greener and safer place to live in," said Maureen Stewart of SLDC.

"We hope people will behave responsibly and that they take heed, because if they do not, fixed penalty notices will be issued."

To make a complaint contact the SLDC reporting line on 0845-0504434.

On-the-spot fines carry a maximum penalty of £75.

For full story see the March 16 Westmorland Gazette.