OVERFLOWING dog waste bins in Wiveliscombe have caused public outcry after the council appears to have left them un-emptied for several weeks.

Wiveliscombe resident Desmond Hawkins believes a bin at the bottom of Wiveliscombe’s Golden Hill has not been emptied since around April 4.

He also claims the overflowing bins are a public health issue, and that it may also deter people from visiting the town.

Since the Easter weekend, members of the public have filled additional bin bags with dog waste litter which remain on site.

Desmond said: “This is not the first time that the bin has been left un-emptied for over a week, but this is the longest and is causing a health issue as well as inconvenience to residents and visitors alike.

“I just hope that a child does not come in contact with the debris, as Somerset Council do not seem to have the ability to deal with issues like this in a timely manner.”

A regular visitor to the town Lindsey Michie, said: “I spend most days in Wivey working or walking with friends. I now carry a carrier bag in my car to put my walking boots in, just so the poo doesn’t go all over my car carpet.”

Wiveliscombe Town Clerk Sarah Towells said: “They’re not our dog bins, they are Somerset Council’s and it’s down to them to empty them.

“I contacted the council (on Thursday, April 17) and spoke to a customer advisor who said she was doing her best to get them sorted. I explained that if they weren’t dealt with in the near future, I will be contacting the environmental services.”

A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “We are aware of the situation and working with the parish council to resolve this as soon as possible.”