A DOG owner who was among dozens seen picking up after their pets has scooped a cash prize.

Durham County Council’s civic Pride team visited the West Park area of Newton Aycliffe as part of its ongoing Green Dog Walkers scheme, which is aimed at encouraging people to act as responsible dog owners.

The project included a ‘golden ticket’ incentive, which saw anyone spotted cleaning up after their dog entered into a prize draw with a cash reward up for grabs.

The lucky winner was Michael Twig, of Beechfield, who picked up a £25 voucher courtesy of Great Aycliffe Town Council.

In total, 28 golden tickets were handed out during the two-week scheme, 35 dogs were microchipped by volunteers from Stray Aid and 25 people signed up as Green Dog Walkers.

However, one person was issued a fixed penalty notice for failing to clean up after their pet.

To sign up to the scheme Green Dog Walkers scheme visit durham.gov.uk/greendogwalkers or call 03000 261 000.

To report a dog fouling offence visit durham.gov.uk/dogfouling or call 03000-261000.