Residents on the Fellgate Estate have complained for months about owners allowing their animals to foul on pavements and on green spaces.

They also said there were inadequate litter bin facilities in the area, particularly along Durham Drive.

Coun Steve Harrison, for the Fellgate and Hedworth ward, took up residents' complaints, which resulted in special, multi-purpose litter bins being installed on the estate.

He said: "I received quite a number of complaints about people allowing their animals to foul on the pavements and grassed areas, and not clearing up after them.

"I talked to people on the estate and found there seemed to be a reluctance among animal owners to use litter bins on lamp-posts."

Coun Harrison contacted council officers and found there was money available to provide several new-style bins around the estate.

These bins allow residents to deposit normal litter, plus chewing gum, cigarette ends, and bagged dog dirt.

Coun Harrison added: "In addition to the new bins, the council has placed 50 stickers on new lamp-posts in the area, advising dog owners to use the new bins.

"It was only a minority of irresponsible dog owners causing problems on the Fellgate Estate, but I would hope these new litter bins will go some way to tackling the problem."

South Tyneside Council's Streetscape department provided the new bins around the Jarrow estate.

Anyone on the Fellgate Estate who thinks their area needs a new bin should contact Coun Harrison on 425 2550.