Surveillance cameras could be deployed to spy on collection bins overflowing with dog mess.

The devices would catch out residents who are stuffing their pet's waste into the bins designed for dog walkers only.

Walkers have been forced to leave bags next to bins and have complained the waste is piling up.

Environmental officers are patrolling streets in Horsham where problems have been reported and questioned dog walkers about possible offenders.

Only a handful of the district's 250 bins are affected but Ian Jopling, Horsham District Council's head of environmental management, waste and cleansing, said it is an "emotive issue".

He said: "As part of our resources for dealing with anti social behaviour we do have access to mobile CCTV cameras. If they were available and not being used for anything else we would consider using them to deal with this.

"If the bin is full dog walkers drop their parcels next to it. They build up and it is quite unpleasant especially for the guys who have to pick it up.

"If a problem is reported we try to get to the bin as quickly as possible but during that time it means other bins are not being emptied."

He would not name the streets affected by the problem for fear of shaming the neighbourhood.

New bins introduced 18 months ago have a small flap so large bags of waste cannot be dropped off. But Mr Jopling said some householders still manage to squeeze them in.

He said pet owners should wrap up their animal's waste and put it in their household bin or buy a "doggy loo" to compost the poo in the garden.

The issue was highlighted in a council report on anti social behaviour. On the spot fines can be dished out to anyone caught misusing the bins.

Mr Jopling said: "If there is a problem with your bin let us know. The sooner we know the sooner we can get round to fixing it. If you suspect people are doing this and stopping responsible dog walkers from using the bins properly please try to encourage them not to or let us know."

Telephone Horsham District Council on 01403 733144 to report a problem.

Is dog poo ruining your neighbourhood? What should be done about it? Let The Argus know by telephoning Newsdesk on 01273 544544 or writing to The Argus, Argus House, Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury, Brighton, BN1 8AR.