Carlisle City Council is reminding people to keep their dogs on leads in the designated area at Talkin Tarn Country Park or face a hefty fine and penalty if the case is dealt with in their absence.
Claire Thurlow, of Moorlands Park, Longtown appeared at Carlisle Magistrates Court on Wednesday 20 November 2019.
The court heard that on the 26 July 2019, near the play area in Talkin Tarn, Claire Thurlow had a dog off the lead in a restricted area. She was approached by officers from Carlisle City Council and was issued with a £100 fixed penalty fine which was not paid, despite reminder letters being sent.
Ms Thurlow was found guilty in her absence and the bench agreed to award costs of £239.64, imposed a fine of £220 and Victim Surcharge of £32. The total penalty was £491.64.
Carlisle City Council spokesperson said: “Parts of Talkin Tarn are designated as a dog on lead areas. This is to protect the unique wildlife it has to offer and enable users of the area to sit, relax and make use of the facilities without having dogs chasing wildlife and roaming freely near the café and children play area.”
This area is covered by the Public Space Protection Order (No1) 2018.
This prosecution was brought under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2016.