Silsden politicians could spearhead action to combat an increase in dog fouling around the town.

Town councillors feel that Bradford Council budget cuts leave them with no alternative but to find a solution themselves.

Silsden mayor Chris Atkinson believes most of the fouling occurs during evenings and weekends when council wardens are not working.

He spoke out after visitors highlighted dog mess in locations such as Silsden Park and the canal towpath.

Coun Atkinson has asked for the matter to be put on the agenda for the next town council meeting on Thursday.

He said: “Given recent budget cuts it looks like the solution to this will have to be local. I am concerned that the wardens can only operate between 9am and 5pm and I suspect that the majority of dog fouling takes place outside these hours.”

Town and district councillor Adrian Naylor said he had met with the wardens and clean teams who were working on the issue.