DOG owners in Chippenham say they are disappointed and confused at the way facilities at Little Battens Park, near Longstone Road, have been removed.

In May, a new bin for dog litter was put up in the park to reduce the problems resulting from the increased popularity of the area with dog walkers.

But a week after it was put up complaints were made to the town council because it had not been emptied.

After several days the bin was cleared. Dog owners were told that in future the bin would be cleared on a weekly basis.

However, two days later, owners were mystified when the bin was removed without any explanation.

The bin has not been seen since and many dog owners have been reluctant to walk across the field to the bin outside the park.

Many have just allowed their pets to foul the grass. This has resulted in an increase in the amount of dog excrement in the area.

The park is especially popular with children, and parents say they are now concerned about likely health problems. Lesley Golding, who is eight months pregnant and regularly walks through the park, said: "We are constantly told about cleaning up after our pets, as any responsible dog owner should.

She said: "Is it not, however, also the responsibility of our elected council to meet us halfway on this by providing the necessary facilities to allow us to do so?

"Surely the council is responsible for the health and safety, infection control and environmental problems that may result from this?"