GOOD to read that our beaches will continue to fly the Blue Flag for being "clean and safe" (Echo, May 19).

Sadly, some dog walkers are still on the "dog free" part of the beach at Alum Chine in the mornings between 8 and 9am. It’s just possible of course that some are not aware of the May to September restrictions, but my guess is that the majority are taking no notice of the signs.

Once, when I reminded someone about the ban, their reply was “Oh, it doesn’t matter at this time of the morning!”

Being a dog walker myself I see plenty of evidence on the path leading down through the Tropical Gardens that some owners can’t be bothered about picking up after their pet, and this occurs on a daily basis.

Regrettably the same can be said of the parts of the beach designated as "dog friendly", so what hope is there for the sections which are allegedly "safe and clean"?

The worst offenders are those who are slaves to their mobile phones as they have no idea of where their dogs are, or what they might be doing.

Is it not time that some of the beach staff started handing out on the spot fines to those who spoil our town’s finest asset?

DANIEL CAMPBELL

Ascham Road, Bournemouth