A GROUP of concerned residents have called on people to join them in a protest march on council offices against newly proposed dog control orders this month.

The campaign group "Let Leia Run" will be presenting Ribble Valley Council with a petition of more than 1000 online and paper signatories, concerning the proposed Public Space Protection Order on dog owners.

Campaigners, who will be walking with their dogs on the march, will meet at the Castle Gates on Moor Lane in Clitheroe on Wednesday August 30 at 10am.

The petition will then be delivered to Ribble Valley Council offices at 10:30am.

The new proposal states dogs have to be kept on a lead at all times on council owned land, including in parks and open spaces and the land around Clitheroe Castle.

The campaigners object to the proposal on the grounds it is too restrictive and would have a detrimental impact on dog owners, dogs and the wider community.

The group has said they believe that there are more effective measures the council could use to tackle issues caused by antisocial dog owners.

Clitheroe resident Jackie Robinson, who set up the petition, said: "We are making a last push to get as many signatures as possible.

"The fact we have got more than 1,000 names already shows the strength of feeling about this issue.

"It is supposed to address the issue of irresponsible dog owners but we feel it goes to far.

"We know the council won't come out to speak to us. I asked the chief executive Marshal Scott to review the application and was kindly told to leave it at reception.

"If you want to make changes then you have to stand up and make your voice heard and need to take action.

"There is still time to add your name to the petition. Just google Let Leia Run."

A spokesman for Ribble Valley Council said: "The council would urge people to sign the public consultation form set by the council rather than signing this petition."

The council's consultation on the issue end on September 1 at 5pm.

For more details visit https://www.ribblevalley.gov.uk/info/200331/animal_welfare/1698/public_spaces_protection_order_pspo_dog_control_consultation