A woman from Harpenden has faced court after her dog, named Soldier, was dangerously out of control in a public place.

Becky Wakefield initially denied the offence, but then changed her plea to guilty when she appeared at St Albans Magistrates’ Court on June 12.

Wakefield admitted being the owner of a pit bull-type dog that was dangerously out of control in Clarkson Court, Hatfield, on December 7 last year.

Magistrates warned that if the dog was left unattended in the future, it would be put down.

Wakefield, 28, must have Soldier neutured, micro-chipped and obtain third party insurance in respect of the dog,

Soldier must be kept in registered secured premises, including the owner’s home and private garden.

The dog is only allowed in public places while being held by a responsible adult of at least 18 years.

He must have a securely fitted muzzle at all times while in a public place.

Wakefield was fined £120.

She was ordered to pay compensation of £1,600, plus £85 court costs.

An application was made to deduct the money from her benefits.

She will be paying £20 a month.