Bullmastiff attacks woman and dog in Hednesford park

The 22-year-old victim was walking her border collie on Pye Green Valley in Hednesford when they were both set upon by the dog which had no collar and was not on a lead.

She tried to separate the two animals but ended up getting bitten on her hands and had to be taken to Cannock Hospital.

Her dog was bitten on his neck, ears and face and had to be treated by a vet.

The bullmastiff was with a man and woman, both aged in their late 20s or 30s. The man is described as white, more than 6ft tall with a skinny build.

He was wearing glasses, a beanie-style hat and dark-coloured clothing. The woman was also white, 5ft 5in tall with a slim build. She was also carrying a dachshund-type dog.

It happened on January 8 but police have only now released details as they appeal for information.

It comes as elsewhere in the West Midlands police marksman had to shoot dead a pit bull-type dog that was out of control in a residential street, leaving neighbours stunned.

Officers were called to Richmond Road in Bearwood following reports that two dogs were 'loose and acting aggressively'.

Residents stayed in their homes while police closed the road shortly before 6.30pm yesterday.

One of the dogs was killed at the scene as cordons were set up to keep residents back. The other dog was secured safely by specialist police dog handlers in a back garden. Force incident manager, Chief Inspector Jack Hadley, said: "Two pit bull- type dogs were reported to police at 4pm yesterday as being on the loose and acting aggressively in Richmond Road.

"Specialists from West Midlands Police's Dog Unit attempted to secure the dogs but, due to their aggressive nature, they were unable to contain them.

"Further inquiries are continuing."

Dog units were also in attendance to support the firearms officers while the road was closed off for more than two hours.

Anyone with information on the Cannock attack should call Staffordshire Police on 101.