Ashfield District Council has confirmed that the new children's sandpit in Hucknall's Titchfield Park will be closed this weekend due to health and safety concerns.

This move follows reports that dogs have been urinating and fouling in the sand.

Titchfield Park which won a prestigious Green Flag award earlier this month , comes under the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This means that dogs are prohibited from entering enclosed children's play areas and fouling. Breaching the PSPO carries a fine of £100.

In a statement posted on Ashfield District Council's Facebook page, they said: "We wish we didn't have to say this but do not allow your dog to use the children's sand pit as a toilet."

Residents who witness anyone dog fouling in the sand pit, on Titchfield Park, or on any park, are encouraged to report it by calling 01623 450 000 or by clicking the appropriate link on the Council's webpage here and filling in and submitting the subsequent form displayed on the page.

The new play equipment, including the sandpit, was only installed on Titchfield Park last month and officially opened in time for the start of half term which began last week.