A Shotley peninsula farmer is set to convert one of his meadows into a paddock where dogs will be allowed to run free.

Richard Carless at Pear Tree Farm between Shotley and Chelmondiston will start erecting a six foot high fence around a field to create the secure dog park.

The pig farmer will use a field that already has amenity use, meaning no planning permission or change of use is required, and they hope to have the dog paddock ready for use next month.

There will be dedicated car parking for dog owners who want to be able to let their animals off the lead in a safe area, which will ensure no livestock, wild life or birds will be disturbed.

Given its central location, near to the Wades Lane bus stop on the B1456, it is hoped the dog park will be popular with pet owners across the peninsula.

Some dog parks contain obstacles, such as logs, for animals to jump over or just explore.

While pricing, opening hours and the exact make up of the paddock are still be be confirmed Richard's wife Martine is convinced the field will be well used.

"It is something we have thought about and looked into quite deeply for some time," said Martine. "The fencing actually arrives on Friday and we will get going.

"There has already been a lot of interest and we know from other people who have done this, it is very popular."

Doggy parks tend to charge around £10 - £15 per hour for individuals to use the paddock and owners are expected to use poo bags to clean up after their dogs, so the next owner can use the area.

Contact Richard for more booking details: 07818 425788

• Add your news article, updates, pictures or letters by using the black Nub It button on the home page.

Or contact the editor: [email protected]