YOUNG artists across Wiltshire are being invited to put their creativity to good use as a popular competition encouraging responsible dog ownership returns.

Wiltshire Council’s ‘Leave only Pawprints’ campaign is back, challenging children aged between four and 14 to design posters reminding dog owners to clean up after their pets.

The winning designs will be displayed in parks, public open spaces and along footpaths across the county, helping spread an important message in a colourful and eye-catching way.

The competition, run by the council’s Dog Warden team, proved popular last year, attracting more than 60 entries from children.

Winning posters created by George, Elise and Freya are still on display in locations around the county.

George’s Leave Only Pawprints design.

Now, organisers are hoping another wave of young talent will help refresh the campaign for another year.

Cabinet Member for Environment Cllr Paul Sample said last year’s competition had been a “real success”.

“It was great to see so much creativity used to promote such an important message,” he added.

“We know that keeping our public spaces clean is something people care deeply about, and this competition provides a positive and engaging way to reinforce that message.

Elise’s Leave Only Pawprints poster.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing this year’s entries and the creative ideas our young residents come up with.”

The competition is open to children living in Wiltshire, excluding Swindon, and is split into three age categories: four to six, seven to ten, and 11 to 14.

Winners in each category will receive a £50 Amazon voucher, donated by Wiltshire Council’s Streetscene contractor, idverde

Freya’s Leave Only Pawprints creation.

Entries can be submitted as drawings or paintings and should focus on responsible dog ownership and keeping green spaces clean.

Competition packs are available through the council’s website, from Wiltshire libraries or by emailing dogs@wiltshire.gov.uk

The deadline for entries is Friday, August 7.

Shortlisted entries will be selected by staff at Bath Cats & Dogs Home before being showcased on Wiltshire Council’s social media channels, where the public will vote for their favourites.