DOGS should be banned from Huddersfield playing fields.

That was the call last night from Clr Christine Stanfield, who demanded the drastic move to protect footballers and rugby players from dog dirt.

The Lindley Lib Dem wants dogs banned from all playing fields, cemeteries and allotments in Kirklees.

Now she is asking Kirklees Council to consider a ban and follow the example set by Calderdale Council, which has started public consultation on such a restriction.

“There are a lot of responsible dog-owners who pick up after their pets,” she said.

“But there are also a huge number of people who aren’t bothered and think it’s the council’s job.

“If we can’t get people to take personal responsibility then it’s time to act.”

Kirklees Council has received 825 complaints about dog fouling since January.

Clr Stanfield said the problem was particularly bad on Salendine Nook High School’s playing fields.

“Over a thousand children play on these fields every week and dog fouling is a real health hazard,” she said.

“The place is running with dogs because there’s no boundary fence.

“Five years ago the council paid for some lovely signs saying ‘no dogs’. They were torn down almost immediately.”

Clr Stanfield would also like dogs banned from cemeteries and allotments.

“You don’t want dogs ruining your veg,” she said.