COUNCILLORS have been consulting bylaws for a way to deal with the menace of horse fouling near schools.

Concerned Bournemouth resident Stuart Dobson asked council members at a recent meeting whether any legislation was in place to "stop riders allowing horses to foul public footpaths within a school's 20mph zone".

However Cllr Mike Green, the borough cabinet member for waste, said research had turned up no such prohibition, and called on riders to show consideration to other path users.

"I have asked officers to research this question and regrettably there are no laws or bylaws which would allow the council to enforce against riders who don't clear up behind their horses," he said.

"It is also regrettable that one particular rider seems to use the footpath of Broadway Lane, near Epiphany School, and I'm guessing it might be there that you are thinking of, and I hope that he or she might see this reply and consider again whether to use this route or how they might be able to clear up after their ride.

"I wish I could have been more encouraging in the answer but I'm afraid that is where we are at the moment."

Rural folk may be surprised at how controversial the issue of horse fouling is to some citizens, with several surveys in recent years suggesting a majority of the British public believe riders should clear up after their horses on roads and in public areas.

Residents enjoying nearby Muscliff Park had mixed feelings about the horse droppings on nearby paths.

Malcolm Raybold, 64, said: "I don't mind it much but I can understand why some people find it annoying.

"It seems as if its one rule for some and another for another. Dogs seem to like it but that's not very nice really.

"But I wouldn't think it was very easy for riders to stop and pick it up."

Horse droppings are considerably less likely to carry bacteria harmful to humans than dog faeces, the bane of British parks, but can contain worming chemicals dangerous to dogs. It is also considered a hazard by some cyclists and motorcyclists.

However some homeowners are known to welcome a surprise delivery of manure on their doorstep, as gardeners swear by its efficacy in the growing of roses.