COVERT CCTV cameras could be installed in parks unless more dog owners clean up after their pets, council bosses have warned.

Banbury Town Council said it has seen a “flood” of complaints about fouling in its parks.

Owners face a £50 spot fine if they are caught in the act by Cherwell District Council or town council officers.

But in June it was revealed that just four owners had been fined by the district council between April 2010 and April 2012.

Town councillor Colin Clarke said: “We are cracking down on this, and we will not hesitate to prosecute anyone caught committing an offence.

“If dog fouling continues to be a problem we could install hidden CCTV cameras without further warning. They can clearly identify people up to half-a-mile away and they will be monitored 24/7.”

The town council runs parks including People’s Park, Princess Diana Park and Spiceball Park.

The council said fouling was a particular issue at the Horton View sports field and Moorfields.