Local people are being encouraged to ‘leave as they find’ and help keep Islay beautiful.

Recycling rates are increasing on Islay, and the rest of Argyll and Bute.

Now residents are being asked to keep it that way – as well as stamping out littering and dog fouling.

People are also being reminded that the Council can take enforcement action against people who don’t clean up after their dog, or leave litter.

Policy Lead for Roads and Amenities, Councillor Roddy McCuish, said: “We are lucky enough to live in a beautiful part of Scotland.

“Islay is just one of our gems and I know everyone, local residents and visitors alike, want it to stay that way.

“We are asking people to support all the efforts being made to increase recycling levels by ensuring everything that can be recycled is, and that waste that can’t be recycled is disposed of properly.

“We much rather people disposed of items responsibly than have to issue fines for littering and fly-tipping.

“It is, however, an option open to us and if we have to take enforcement action, we will.

“Likewise with dog fouling – not only is it totally unacceptable, it is illegal.”

Argyll and Bute Council has 13 environmental wardens who carry out patrols with four of those being taken on earlier this year after the Council made funding available specifically to support littering and dog-fouling efforts. They are equipped with CCTV-mounted vans.

Joint patrols with the police also take place where resources allow.

Residents are encouraged to report people they see not cleaning up after their dogs by giving us information, where possible, such as the person responsible, the type of dog and the approximate time and place the person walks their dog.

This can be done by calling us on 01546 605514. This information allows us to step up patrols in the area.

Anyone caught leaving dog fouling or littering will be fined £80, rising to £100 if not paid within 28 days.

For fly-tipping, offenders face a fixed penalty fine of £200. If not paid, prosecution could result in a fine of up to £200.

National legislation sets out the fines that apply for fly tipping across Scotland and the Council works in line with this legislation. It has a duty to investigate reports and will take appropriate steps to pursue those responsible.

Residents on Islay and elsewhere on Argyll and Bute who want to report fly-tipping, littering or dog fouling can do so on the Council website at www.argyll-bute.gov.uk under rubbish and recycling.

You can also find out where your local recycling centre is, the opening times and what you can take there.