A DIFFERENT kind of fouling forced a youth football match in Swindon to be cancelled.

Wroughton Parish Council issued a public statement explaininga game between the village's under-11s and Hungerford was called off when the opposition confirmed they did not want to play because there was too much dog mess on the pitch.

The Maunsell Way field is used for the team's home games but is also popular with dog walkers in the area, some of whom clearly have not been picking up after their pets and leaving the poo behind for someone else to deal with. 

The statement from the parish council read: "WPC is very disappointed to learn that on Sunday, November 20, an U11 WYFC match was cancelled at Maunsell Way. The opposing Hungerford team did not want to play as there was too much dog mess on the pitch.

"There is no excuse not to pick up after your dog and this careless behaviour has impacted the enjoyment of the children and a wasted journey for many parents/carers."

The parish council also warned of the possible health risks that could occur if any of the young players accidentally ingested the faeces left on the pitch during the course of the game.

It said: "If dog mess is ingested then this can cause toxocariasis which can lead to loss of vision so it is unsurprising that caution was taken.

"It is the responsibility of the dog owners to pick up after their dog and the council has provided numerous dog bins in the area to enable dog owners. Please note that multipurpose bins can also be used for disposal.

"Please can you all play your part in keeping any public space safe for both children and adults alike by picking up after your dog and disposing of any litter in the council-owned bins too as we do not wish to hear of any further incidents."

The post was met with a number of comments from residents describing a growing problem with people leaving dog poo. 

One said: "Seems to be getting worse each week. Pavements absolutely littered with the stuff. Really have to be careful where you walk. Absolutely disgusting."

Another added: "Walking up to the village yesterday the amount of dog poo on pavements was terrible. I had to really watch where I walk, it shouldn’t be like this."

Wroughton Youth Football Club have been approached for comment.