SPECIALLY trained officers will start operating across Redditch this month to tackle litter and dog fouling.

A consultation exercise with residents highlighted dog mess and litter as a major concern.

Redditch Council set aside more than £35,000 to employ two part-time enforcement officers, who will now target "hot spot" problem areas in a highly visible marked van.

It is the first time the council has set up a team specifically dedicated to tackling dog mess and litter.