Alert over claims of ‘poison’ in Exeter park

'It poses a real and ongoing risk'

Parents and pet owners in Exeter have been warned to stay alert after fresh reports of poison in a popular park.

Last August it was reported that several animals had become seriously ill after visiting Cowick Barton Playing Fields. A sign on the gate said one dog and four foxes had died after eating ‘poisoned food’ in the area.

Now fresh warnings have been issued after dead wildlife was found, and there are calls for the city council to step in with warning signs to make people aware of the dangers.

County councillor Neil Stevens (Reform, Alphington and Cowick) highlighted the danger in a  social media post.

He stressed that no individual or group was being accused of putting down any poisonous substance.

After the August alert police confirmed that a number of animals had become ill, although the cause of the illness remained unclear.

Now Cllr Stevens has raised similar fears.

He said: “The concerns on this occasion were sparked by reports from residents that two foxes had been found dead in and around Pinces Gardens. This is the second such incident in that area. A similar event occurred last year, which raised serious concerns locally.

“Given that history, and the fact that the cause is suspected poisoning, my primary concern is public and animal safety, particularly dogs, other pets, and children who use or pass through the area. If poison is being deliberately placed, it poses a real and ongoing risk.

“As a result, I shared a warning on social media to alert residents, which has been widely shared, and we are also putting up warning posters at access points to the area to ensure people are aware and can take precautions.

“This is about preventing harm and making sure the issue is taken seriously and addressed as quickly as possible.”

A spokesperson for Exeter City Council said: “We are currently not aware of any recent reports of poisoning.”