Dog walkers who have used a popular park to excercise their pets for decades are now 'scared' to do so.

The field at Nalgo Sports and Recreation Ground on Cricklade Road is used by many local residents and their four-legged friends.

But some have met opposition recently - with signs warning them to keep dogs on leads and clean up after them - and they claim a groundsman has rudely confronted them.

Some have chosen not to return since.

Swindon Advertiser: The recreation ground can be found on Cricklade Road.The recreation ground can be found on Cricklade Road. (Image: Dave Cox)

A Stratton resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Adver of the problems he had faced.

“We have been taking our dogs here for over 35 years and we never had a problem before,” he said.

“Signs went up in June and we have had these rules imposed upon us with the groundsman being very confrontational with us.

“It has left many neighbours and friends upset with one elderly lady so scared she never returned.”

Swindon Advertiser: The field used by dog walkers in Swindon.The field used by dog walkers in Swindon. (Image: Dave Cox)

The 74-year-old has spoken to other dogwalkers in the area about the issue.

“The conversation amongst dogwalkers in the area is now about him and whether he has been rude to us,” he said.

“It has been very upsetting for a lot of the older residents and walking your dogs is supposed to be a nice pastime so it has me on edge and leaves a nasty taste in the mouth.

“Every weekday we walk the dogs but it’s making our lives a misery and has spoilt what is a nice facility.”

Swindon Advertiser: The new sign was added at the site earlier this summer.The new sign was added at the site earlier this summer. (Image: Newsquest)

Nalgo Sports & Leisure Limited (NSLL) is a community trust which operates the recreation ground for the benefit of its 700 members and members of the public. The trust has secured a 25-year lease from Swindon Borough Council.

The land has been recorded with the Land Registry in order to operate and develop the site as a community asset.

Swindon Advertiser: Elderly residents are upset with how they have been treated.Elderly residents are upset with how they have been treated. (Image: Dave Cox)

NSLL trustee Rob Johns said in response to the claims: “Unfortunately, irresponsible dog owners have resulted in serious dog fouling on sports fields where children and adults play and train.

“Even if the fouling is picked up, remnants of it remain on the grass and soil, which is disgusting and could have serious life-changing health consequences.

“The Trust wants to promote physical activity in all its forms and recognises but we insist dogs must be controlled on leads.”