Town Hall bosses originally wanted to extend the current ban – which runs from May 1 to September 30 – on certain parts of beaches in Scarborough and the other borough resorts.

However, following strong public opposition, a council report recommended that the proposal should be abandoned.

At this week's full council meeting deputy mayor and Eastfield ward councillor Brian O'Flynn suggested an amendment to the legislation.

He said that, for safety reasons, dogs should be kept on a lead while on the beach during March and April.

Cllr O'Flynn said: "A lot of people in Scarborough feel threatened and don't want to take their children on the beach."

In response, Cllr Lucy Haycock, of Seamer ward, said: "This is a big issue. I love dogs and have had them for 35 years but children need protecting. What we need is more enforcement wardens on the beach."

Newby ward councillor Brian Watson proposed that councillors should make no such amendment and vote to keep the original legislation.

He said: "I had more letters about the proposed dog ban than any other issue. People want to be able to let dogs off their leads and let them run about."

Cllr Geoff Evans, of Eastfield ward, said: "This is not about exercising dogs, this is about safety."

Following the discussion councillors voted against the proposed amendment and decided to follow recommendations not to change the current legislation.

Liz Blades, who lives in the Old Town, helped organise a petition, signed by nearly 5,000 people, against the proposed changes.

She said: "I'm glad to hear this final decision. There are so many responsible dog owners in Scarborough so this is good news for them."