The group of wardens has been set up as part of a zero tolerance approach to dog fouling throughout the area, and will be operating in parks and public places until the end of August.

Anyone found not cleaning up after their pet will be faced with a £50 fixed penalty notice.

The officers will also be tackling the problem of dog owners not binning bags of dog mess properly, even if they have cleaned up after their animals.

Anyone caught not disposing of waste properly will also be stung by a £75 fine as part of the new measures.

And those caught out by the scheme are being reminded that they could face prosecution, a criminal record and a fine of up to £1,000 for not paying the penalty notices.

Coun Danny McCrossan, portfolio holder for public protection at Mansfield District Council, said: "Not cleaning up after your dog is unacceptable and shows a complete lack of respect to the local environment and other people.

"The Mansfield district is blessed with some fantastic parks and it is not right that they should be blighted by a small number of dog owners who also give the responsible majority a bad name."

Anyone wanting to report problems with dog fouling to one of the new wardens should contact 01623 463463.