I HAVE often written about Spring Wood on the outskirts of Whalley, but it is one of my favourite walks with my black labrador. Last week I visited the wood but had not intended to write about it. Then I came across a really lovely story.

I was about to take out a "doggie poo bag" which are provided in a box. There was a notice on the box which asked people to keep away because a blue tit was using the box as its nest site! I was delighted to do as I was asked.

I think that Spring Wood has done a wonderful job in all aspects of management including providing free "poo bags" and another box to dispose of the waste.

This is why I get very angry when I find that people still allow their dogs to foul the footpaths without picking up the dirt.

All dog owners should clean up after their pets. Those who do not have no right to complain when the authorities set up no-go areas for dogs.

On the whole however, most people behave sensibly and despite the presence of lots of picnic tables there is not a lot of evidence of litter. The message for all of us who love our countryside is take your litter home and clean up after your dog.

Having got that off my chest I can continue to smile at the birds which pinched the poo bag box' and enjoy the wonderful display of the late spring flowers which included wild garlic, bluebell, stitchwort, Jack-by-the-Hedge, speedwell and a host of other species. Once again Spring Wood has put an extra spring in my step. It always does!