DOGS chained to public land on Ottery s outskirts are not a cause for concern, says Devon County Council (DCC).

DOGS chained to public land on Ottery's outskirts are not a cause for concern, says Devon County Council (DCC).

A spokesman for the authority said the RSPCA has visited a caravan dweller, who has set up home at Salston Cross, and is "happy" with the current situation.

DCC's gypsy liaison officer also visited the site last Thursday after residents voiced fears over being "intimidated" by the animals.

Last week an Ottery father of three told the Herald how he was chased by one of the animals, a Rottweiler, when he was cycling to work.

Ottery town council has written to DCC on several occasions after receiving a string of complaints from residents over the appearance of the caravan in April.

The DCC spokesman said: "Our officer visited the site again today (Thursday) and asked the gentleman about his dogs, and relayed the concerns that the Herald flagged up to us.

"The traveller has given assurances that his dogs will not be a problem for anyone. "The RSPCA has also visited the dogs and are happy with the way they're being kept and about their behaviour.

"We'll continue to monitor the situation, but would repeat that if anyone's got concerns that they'd like to report, to contact our gypsy liaison officer.