DECIDED to take the shortcut to school today, rather than walk the busy road route.

Unfortunately the footpath that runs from the Atherleigh bypass to Howe Bridge appears to have been claimed by local dog walkers as their personal dog toilet.

The pathway is littered with dog mess from one end to the other and the smell is unbearable.

Note to dog owners – if you do not like picking up your dog’s mess then do not have a dog.

Truly vile and inconsiderate creatures – and I do not mean the dogs.

Lovers Lane resident