A furious pet owner has slammed the "disgusting" amount of rubbish left at a top South Derbyshire dog-walking spot.

Shelley Clipson was walking her dog in the field by Coppice Side and Swadlincote Ski and Snowboard Centre on Monday, June 11 when a large amount of litter caught her eye.

The 42-year-old, who works as a warehouse administrator, is now calling for more litter bins to be installed in the popular dog-walking field as she believes the rubbish spoils the "lovely" setting for other walkers.

She said: "I really felt angry that people have that little respect they'd leave it in that state, I always pick up after my dog.

"Even though the dog waste bin has been removed, I take it home to dispose of - the same should be done when it comes to litter.

Shelley Clipson said she was disgusted by the mess
Shelley Clipson said she was disgusted by the mess

Ms Clipson claims the litter problem becomes more of an issue during summer when families are out enjoying the sunshine or teenagers spend the evening drinking on the field.

She said: " I have no problem with that if they're not causing trouble, I just wish they'd take rubbish away with them.

"There's been broken bottles and cans that have been twisted so that jagged edges are exposed, which is dangerous for both dogs and children who also play up there.

"I've also noticed on several occasions when the football teams are up there on a Sunday morning that empty cardboard coffee cups, cans and bottles have been left around the edges of the pitches by the supporters.

"I think bins should be put up there, at least two of each dog waste and litter bins. There used to be a dog waste bin but it was removed because it kept falling over.

"It was on a post and the ground can get quite boggy during winter and it overbalanced with not being firmly situated.

"Surely the answer would have been to replace with flat bottomed heavier bins like in the local parks rather than just removed.

"I think it would certainly help to have bins as some people seem to have the attitude that if they're not there it's to be expected, but I don't think it will cure the problem entirely.

"Anyone who thinks it's okay to leave it in that state probably wouldn't bother using bins if it meant they had to walk to it anyway."

A spokesman for South Derbyshire District Council said: "As soon as we were made aware of litter in the field next to Swadlincote Ski Centre, it was cleared away.

"The football pitch is litter picked after every match and inspected whenever the grass is mowed, which is every two weeks.

"To ensure that facilities are available for everyone to enjoy, the adjoining Swadlincote Skate Park is also monitored, inspected and maintained three times a week.

"We would urge those using the area to take pride in their environment and dispose of their litter appropriately to help keep South Derbyshire clean and safe.

"Anyone who spots littering in the District should report it to us by visiting www.south-derbys.gov.uk or by telephoning 01283 595795."