PROFESSIONAL dog-walkers in Epping Forest could face restrictions imposed by the City of London Corporation.

The Corporation, which controls 10,000 acres of open space including Epping Forest, has received reports of dogs fighting.

Responding to the complaints, it is now considering putting a limit, likely to be six, on the number of dogs professional walkers can take out at any time.

They may also have to gain a licence by proving they can control the dogs they are responsible for.

The professional licence option is to be considered in the autumn.

The new rules are proposed for all open spaces under the Corporation’s control, including Epping Forest, Hampstead Heath and Burnham Beeches in Buckinghamshire.

Commercial dog-walkers have said they are being unfairly blamed for problems caused by individual dogs and owners are responsible as they do not control them properly.