A WOMAN has claimed she was ill for days after her dog allegedly rolled in human poo as police hunt for a runner defecating in Malvern.

She is one of many residents who have claimed to have seen a runner defecating near a footpath or spotted human faeces on the Malvern Hills.

Malvern SNT called the incidents unacceptable and said the perpetrator must be stopped after they were approached by a member of the public while on Sugar Loaf Hill.

The woman, who did want her name to be published, said: "My dog rolled in some, and I was really ill for two days after having to bathe him.

"The car journey home was horrendous."

Another reader, Helen West, added: "My dog normally finds them down alleyways in Malvern, and they are are definitely humans."

The alleged incidents have taken place on Sugarloaf Hill, which lies between the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill in the Malvern Hills.

The incidents have led many readers to dub the runner the "phantom pooer" and head to social media to share how "disgusting" it is. 

One reader, Amanda Kemp, said that if you would clean up after your own dog, you should also clean up after yourself.

She said: "Would you not carry a dog poo bag with you and clean up after yourself if you get caught short?

"A wild wee is one thing. A poo is different.

"I would clean up after my dog!"

Karen Hobson added: "I hope they used a bag and cleared up after themselves."

A spokesperson for Malvern SNT said they were approached by a concerned member of the public about the issue yesterday (Wednesday) while on patrol.

It added: "Whilst out on patrol on Sugar Loaf Hill, officers were approached by a concerned member of the public who has reported a regular runner/walker is defecating in the undergrowth, just off the main path.

"This is unacceptable, a hazard to all and must stop.

"There are many public toilets available around the hills to use, so there is no excuse for not using them."