A beagle was attacked by two Staffordshire bull terriers while being walked in Hastings.

The beagle and its owner were walking through the Boss recreation ground, Elphinstone Road, when it was set upon by a black male and white female staffie.

The beagle was left with a badly damaged ear which required surgery.

It took 20 minutes and intervention from members of the public to seperate the dogs.

The attack occured on March 18 at 7pm.

Sussex Police are appealing for the owner of the staffies to come forward.

The man with the two dogs is described as white, aged mid to late 20s, between 5' 11" and 6' tall, of thin build with gaunt facial features.

He was wearing navy coloured Adidas tracksuit bottoms and a red and navy hooded top.

PC Heath Moir said: "The owner of the beagle is deeply upset by this unprovoked attack on his dog.

"Fortunately there were other dog walkers around who were able to help separate the fighting animals.

"Their brave intervention stopped this attack from being much worse.

"I appeal to anyone who recognises the description of the owner of the two Staffordshire bull terriers to come forward.

"There are concerns that these two dogs may attack again and I would like to be able to prevent such another horrific incident."

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 1447 of 18/03. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.