Jamie scoops a design solution

University of Teesside BA (Honours) Industrial Design graduate Jamie Sellors has a hi-tech solution to the problem of dog dirt. For Jamie, 22, from Doncaster, has designed FES (Faeces Eradication System) as part of his final-year project at the Middlesbrough-based University. FES incorporates computer technology, and includes the following four stages:

* A scanning device to be micro-chipped into the dog. This enables dogs to be traced if they have fouled the pavement, with a resulting fine for the owner.
* A retractable long-armed pooper scoop, concealed in the dog lead. This enables dog owners to pick up the dog dirt without having to bend down.
* Clip-bags on the end of the scoop called pods to collect the dirt. * Manhole covers for disposal of dog waste, connected to the sewerage system.

FES evolved over 15 weeks, and Jamie consulted Middlesbrough Borough Council to look at their anti-dog fouling measures. He said: "I wanted to design something that the community actually needs. The theory behind FES is if dog owners are fined they'll be less likely to let their dogs foul again, which is better for everyone. I've also suggested that the pods on the scoop could be sponsored by industry, such as dog food manufacturers. If they place their recognisable logo on the pods it would be a great way to advertise FES to the public. I'd be really encouraged if someone developed the system."

Jamie is also one of the winners in a Tees Valley initiative, the Manufacturing Challenge Off the Ground competition. The contest encourages would-be entrepreneurs to develop their own businesses, and for the first time this year's competition was open to a wider range of entrants, including school pupils and University students. Jamie won the Higher Education category. Jamie is a former pupil of Hunger Hill School, where he achieved a BTEC National Diploma in Product Design. He added: "I've always been interested in creative work and problem solving. Teesside was my first choice, the lecturers are friendly and the single-site campus is attractive."

He is now seeking his first post with a Design consultancy. Jamie is the son of Jean and Steve Sellors and is the first in his family to graduate from University.

"My parents are really proud, they've always wanted me to go to University", added Jamie.

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