Irresponsible pet owners have been slammed after more than 100 bags of dog mess were cleared from a beauty spot.

Swale council street wardens had been investigating dog fouling in the grounds of Minster Abbey, but were so shocked by what they found they organised an on the spot clean-up themselves.

Jeff Payne and Maxine Jacobs and Kent County Council warden Faye Mahoney spent an hour clearing up and collected more than 100 bags.

There is a dog waste bin and two litter bins to dispose of rubbish in the Abbey grounds, off Union Road, Minster.

Principle street warden Geraldine Chidley said: "This is an absolutely appalling situation.

"There really is no excuse for dog owners to be so irresponsible.

"Now that we are aware of the extent of this problem we are going to target the area and will take the appropriate action against anyone witnessed not cleaning up after their dog."

To report someone who does not clean up after their dog, with details, phone Swale council’s customer services on 01795 417850 or go online