Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets on leads while out walking in the town's green spaces and nature reserves.

With many people finding themselves out and about in nature that's closer to home due to the coronavirus, Workington's green spaces are being flooded with new faces.

And while those managing nature reserves and open spaces always welcome new visitors with open arms, they are urging the town's residents and dog walkers to abide by laws in place to protect wildlife.

It is an offence to allow your pet to worry, kill or maul sheep and their lambs, and owners should keep their dogs on a lead at all times when around them.

Nesting birds can also be found in ponds, streams, rivers and rock pools, and they should not be disturbed during this important time of the year for their nests and eggs.

Swans are particularly defensive of their young, and under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, all birds, their nests and eggs are protected by law.

Susan Cammish, nature ranger with Workington Nature Partnership, said: “Your dog may be a loving, friendly pet, but if they are off the lead, they may think it is a fun game to run around with these animals.

"Unfortunately, it is not a game to some of these animals and they often get scared, injured or killed as a result."

She continued: “We are grateful to the majority of responsible dog walkers in our communities, that love to watch the local wildlife and help us to look after it.

"We want you to keep your dog close by, under control on a lead, and for every person and animal to be safe, in or out of current restrictions.

“Our nature reserves are fantastic places to exercise and spend time, but please enjoy them responsibly by also picking up after your pet, using the litter bins provided, not having fires and not picking the wildflowers.”

A pair of nesting swans were recently attacked by an uncontrolled dog in Harrington Nature Reserve, forcing them to abandon their nest and put their eggs at risk.

Although the birds and their cygnets are now safe, the Reserve is still encouraging owners to be more careful.

WNP is working with Cumbria Police to address this issue, and signs with advice on how people can protect wildlife have been put up around Harrington Nature Reserve.

PCSO Peter Nichol said: “We would urge dog owners to listen to the advice given out here.

“These green spaces and nature reserves are places for everyone. We know most dog owners are responsible – but we just want to urge all owners to please think of others and make sure their dogs are under control.”

To report any incidents of criminal behaviour, contact police on 101.