Thirty-one offences have been recorded in Stevenage this year, compared to 11 in the same period last year.

Education campaign launches in Stevenage after hike in attacks

A police campaign has been launched in Stevenage to educate residents following a hike in dog attacks this year.

A total of 31 offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act have been recorded in the town since January, according to figures reported in the Herfordshire Mercury, compared to 11 offences from the same period last year.

"We have seen an unprecedented rise in the number of incidents being reported to us relating to dogs in Stevenage," Sergeant Manjit Khela from the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood team told the Hertfordshire Mercury.

“This takes up a huge amount of police time and I’m sure if people had a better understanding of the laws relating to dogs, some of these incidents would be avoided."

New dangerous dog laws came into force in May this year. An amend to the Dangerous Dogs Act meant owners can now be prosecuted if their dog is dangerously out of control on private property. Previously, the law only applied to public spaces.

In addition, jail sentences were extended for the owners of dogs who attack, injure or kill people. Owners can now also serve up to three years in prison if their dog kills an assistance dog.

The education campaign was launched at Stevenage Town Square on October 4. Members of the police, council representatives and canine charities attended to give advice on responsible dog ownership and changes to the law.