The reserve, managed by South Downs Joint Committee, is a popular place to visit and walk with its unique views of Cuckmere Haven and Seven Sisters. But dog owners who fail to clear up their pets' mess are marring people's enjoyment of the site.

Says SDJC ranger Tracey Younghusband: “Though only a small number of owners fail to clear up after their dogs, unacceptable amounts of dog mess remain on the path and in the car park areas.”

But since the Fouling of Land Order came in last year, new powers have been enforced, enabling local authorities like Lewes District Council to fine owners of dogs fouling public sites.

The law requires any person in charge of a dog fouling designated land to clear it up or face a £50 fixed penalty notice or a fine up to £1,000. This applies to most publicly accessible land including beaches and roadside verges.

Says Tracey: “Lewes District Council animal wardens are now patrolling all countryside sites in the area, including Seaford Head, serving penalty notices to those who disregard the law.

“The majority of owners do pick up their dogs' mess but some just leave the bags in situ instead of using the appropriate bins and that is just as bad because they will not biodegrade. Hopefully the patrols by the council's wardens will mean we can all begin to enjoy a cleaner site at Seaford Head.”