WALKDEN man Phil Wells is living proof that 'where there's muck, there's brass.'

Because Phil has what has to be one of the muckiest jobs in the world.

He earns his living by ensuring the parks throughout Salford remain dog poo free!

Phil is Salford City Council's Canine Cleaning Officer and clears away on average more than six tonnes of dog dirt a year.

His duties include emptying the 120 dog bins around the city's parks, collecting around 30kg of muck daily. It is then taken for incineration.

In addition, Phil provides a cleaning and repair service for the bins.

However, his job does not stop there, because Phil is keen to make sure dog owners know what they can do to keep the city clean.

He said: "I carry poop scoops with me and I make sure any dog owners I see causing a mess know about how to use them.

"I even have regulars now who look out for me in the parks and ask me for the scoops from time to time."

Although Phil is the first to admit the job is not everybody's cup of tea, someone has to do it. Phil explained: "There is a toxicara worm, often carried in dog muck, that can cause illness or even blindness to anyone who comes into contact with it. The eggs of this worm live for months on the ground where a dog has done its business - even after the muck has been washed away.

"Owners should worm their pets every three to six months, encourage their pets to get rid of waste matter at home, and avoid leaving unhealthy mess in public places. People should just think a bit more that's all."

Owners whose pets foul public places are subject to on the spot fines of £25 - and up to £1,000 if the case ends up in court.

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