Appeal to dog walkers from Common Plot trustees

The days are getting warmer and longer and the grass is growing fast – and this means that from the middle of April, cattle will be returning to graze on the Common Plot.

The trustees of the Common Plot are reminding dog owners to walk their pets responsibly around the cattle – and to make sure they clean up after them too.

The cattle are extremely important to the Plot as their grazing provides a source of income which goes towards the maintenance and running of this very special area of Stone.

Liz Shirley said: “Although the Plot is primarily grazing land for cattle, the trustees are aware of how popular the area is to dog walkers. We are therefore taking this opportunity to inform dog owners of how they and their pets should behave, especially when cattle are present, by publicising a leaflet produced by the National Farmers Union (below).

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“The trustees hope that this will be a reminder to all dog owners who use the Plot regarding the dangers of uncontrolled dog fouling. Dog poo spreads disease to other animals and can harm humans too. Bins are provided and emptied regularly so please use them and make the Plot a clean and healthy place for everyone to enjoy.

And remember that local schools use the Plot (including the ‘Play Plot’ opposite Christchurch Academy) for various activities including cross-country running and we hope everyone will do their best to prevent the children returning with dog poo on their trainers.”

[box type=”info” ]The trustees of Stone Common Plot, a registered charity, are holding their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 27th April. The meeting, which is open to members of the public, is being held at Stone Town Council Chamber in Station Road and gets under way at 7.30pm[/box]