Cleanup Efforts Intensify After Toddler Found in Distressing Incident

Reports of a toddler reportedly seen consuming dog feces in a Bolton alley have prompted urgent cleanup measures and raised serious health concerns. The incident was recounted by Sue Priest, a local council member representing the Smithills ward, during a recent council meeting. She shared that a resident had alerted her to the distressing event, which took place in an alley on Back Empress Street, located between Chorley Old Road and Empress Street.

Describing the scene, Priest noted that the alley had been in a “sorry state” prior to the incident. She remarked, “It’s very overgrown and dog walkers obviously thought they wouldn’t have to pick up after their dog, as it’s fairly hidden.” The shocking report detailed a small child, estimated to be between two and three years old, who was seen with dog feces on her face, leading her mother to react with understandable distress. Priest emphasized the significant health risks posed to small children in such situations.

The resident who reported the incident had previously contacted the council multiple times this year, urging them to address the issue in Back Empress Street. Priest raised concerns about the adequacy of the council’s neighbourhood services to fulfill basic responsibilities and questioned current response times.

On November 26, 2023, representatives from the Local Democracy Reporting Service visited Back Empress Street and observed improvements. The alley appeared clean, with no visible litter or dog waste. At its entrance, two newly painted “no dog fouling” signs had been installed on the pavement, indicating the council’s efforts to deter such behavior.

Elaine Broughton, a 61-year-old resident from Heaton, expressed her dismay at the incident, stating, “That’s absolutely appalling, poor little thing, how horrible for her and the mum and dad.” She criticized irresponsible dog owners, noting that while most people are conscientious about cleaning up after their pets, a “selfish minority” can cause distressing situations.

In response to the incident, Bolton Council confirmed that Back Empress Street has been thoroughly cleaned and that new signage has been added to further discourage dog fouling. A spokesperson stated, “As a council, we are investing in our neighbourhood services to keep our public spaces clean and safe for everyone to use.” They highlighted that dog fouling patrols have made multiple visits to the site, reinforcing community standards.

The spokesperson acknowledged that issues like this often stem from a small number of irresponsible residents who neglect their duties, but assured that robust enforcement measures are in place to hold them accountable. They emphasized that the majority of Bolton residents take pride in their community and actively participate in keeping the town clean.

As cleanup efforts continue, the focus remains on ensuring that public spaces are safe for families and children, while fostering a sense of community responsibility in maintaining local environments.