DORSET Council is looking for a new dog warden – paying up to £27,250 a year.

Official figures suggest the postholder's job is more likely to be about persuasion, rather than handing out fines.

A Freedom of Information request to Dorset Council shows that since the authority was created, in May 2019, only ONE fine for dog fouling has ever been issued, in the Dorchester area five years ago.

The job advert' for the current post reads: "Are you passionate about dogs and making a real difference in your community? Do you thrive in a role where no two days are the same? If you're curious about a career that blends animal welfare, public service and investigative work – this could be the perfect opportunity for you!"

The job description says the postholder will be mainly based at home travelling throughout the county "promoting responsible dog ownership and tackling dog related issues that affect the community. Your work will focus on education first, with enforcement when needed."

Part of the job is likely to involve managing stray dogs and arranging secure accommodation for them; investigating complaints about aggressive dog behaviour, excessive barking or missing microchipping of owner details and patrolling 'hot spots' to reduce dog fouling.

The closing date for applications is on August 22 with interviews later in the month or early September.