BEACH rangers responsible for the maintenance and enhancement of the beach and surrounding area as a recreational resource at Polzeath have issued a warning after multiple fines were issued for walking dogs on the beach.

It comes amid a summer time ban of the exercising of dogs on selected beaches, enforceable with civil enforcement measures. The ban is in place between 10am and 6pm each day during the enforcement period, with penalties comprising of a fixed penalty notice for £100, although it can be increased to £1,000 if it goes to prosecution.

While some beaches dog exercise ban ended on August 31, some beaches continue to have the measure in place until September 30.

Cornwall Council advises the following: “Blue Flag and Seaside Award beaches have longer restrictions due to the requirements of the Award status. In addition there are three protected wildlife areas that are subject to individual restrictions.” A comprehensive list of each beach’s restrictions can be found on the Cornwall Council website.

A spokesperson for the Polzeath Beach Ranger Service said: Four dog walkers were fined by the civil enforcement officer on September 12 for walking their dogs on the beach.

“Whether or not we like a particular piece of legislation is of no consequence. The beach rangers try to help by informing people about the rules, but we often 'get it in the neck' from people who either agree, or disagree with those rules.

“The legislation does not say 'unless the weather is bad' or 'unless the beach is quiet' It's simply date-specific legislation. Some people really don't like seeing dogs on the beach, and we must respect that, and their reasons for feeling that way. Stick to the rules. Keep it simple. Enjoy the beach with your dog all day after September 30.”