Residents feeding birds has been claimed as the reason for an "awful" poo and dirt-covered path in Verulamium Park.

A row erupted on social media earlier this week after people enjoying the warm weather fumed about the state of the footpath on the far side of the lake.

Many users were left furious by the scene, describing it as "ugly", "awful" and an "eyesore".

Some suggested that St Albans City and District Council have an obligation to keep the path clear of excrement.

But others felt that the complaints were unfair and that this is all just a natural part of nature.

The council has responded to the criticisms, insisting that the path is cleaned regularly and laying the blame on residents who feed the park's birds.

Christine Traill, strategic director of community and place dDelivery at St Albans City and District Council, said: “The paths at Verulamium Park are swept weekly.

 "Excessive bird droppings are one of the reasons we encourage people not to feed the birds which creates an unnaturally high bird population sustained by feeding, and leads to overcrowding and delayed migration."

She added: “We will continue to work with our contractor to inspect the area and clear the paths."