DOG walkers are horrified CCTV cameras are to be installed around a lake on the outskirts of Fairford to ensure people stick to a public footpath.

Cygnet Investments, which recently had a planning application for a large holiday complex around Lakes 103, 103A and 104 turned down, is behind the move.

Boss Mark Savage told the Standard several unpleasant incidents relating to the public footpath had forced his hand.

Only last Wednesday a pensioner from Fairford was left badly shaken after being confronted by police for allegedly failing to control her dogs.

Guen (corr) Taylor, 83, claims she was told she faced prosecution if she reoffended.

She said: "The incident really, really upset me. I was just doing what other people and I have been doing for nearly 30 years - walking around Lake 104.

"I've just come out of hospital after a fall, which left me badly concussed, and the situation was very unnerving. I was left very shaken.

"I was walking that land before those lakes were even dug and we have had no problem before - nobody has ever done any serious damage. They are really acting in a horrible and nasty way.

"CCTV cameras aren't on - it means when you go for a country walk you are being watched."

However, Mr Savage claims staff at the lakes have been verbally abused by dog walkers, while people have also cut fences, pulled posts away and taken down signs in a campaign of disruption.

He said police were not called specifically for Mrs Taylor but because of several incidents in recent weeks.

"Last week a nesting moorhen was killed by one such straying dog," he said. "We are keen to protect the wildlife and prevent people from defying the footpath notices.

"We have the manpower to police the path and we are putting the fencing back up to remind people to keep to the footpath. We will also be videoing anyone who abuses us."

Cygnet Investments is set to appeal against Cotswold District Council's decision to throw out its planning application after over 1,000 residents objected to the plans.