A dog owner from Stonebridge has become the first person in Brent to be convicted of failing to clean up after his pet fouled near a children’s park.

Dawid Golas, 21, of Kenmere Gardens, admitted he let his Mastiff poo near the playground in Heather Park, Alperton, before walking away and leaving it behind.

Prosecutors told Willesden Magistrates’ Court that dog fouling is a public health concern, linked to health risks including Toxocara canis and roundworm eggs which can cause stomach upsets and serious health conditions.

Golas pleaded guilty to the offence after he failed to pay a fixed penalty notice issued after the incident last November.

He was fined £200 and ordered to pay costs of £240.

Cllr Ellie Southwood, Brent Council’s cabinet member for the environment, said: “While we know that most dog owners are responsible and pick up after their dogs, we are working hard to tackle the small number that do not.

“Dog fouls pose some serious health risks, particularly to small children, which is why I am delighted that we have secured this first conviction.

“I hope that the outcome of this case sends out a strong message that there will be consequences for irresponsible dog ownership here in Brent.”