A TEENAGER was bit in the face by a dog who was running free in a car park.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which occurred in the car park of Worthing Town Football Club, in Palatine Road, at about 1pm last Friday.

The 17-year-old boy reported being with his friends when the dog, believed to be a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, jumped and bit or scratched him, causing a cut to his chin and swelling to his right cheek.

PC Dave Slade said: "We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or may know anything about the dog.

"In particular, we would like to speak to a woman who we believe may be the dog's owner. She is described as white, in her 30s or 40s, about 5' 8" and of slim build. She was seen to be walking behind the dog with a toddler shortly before the incident occurred.

"After the attack, she told the victim she would wait for police to arrive, however she is believed to have driven off in a blue van a short while later."

The dog is described as a white and brown Staffy-type dog with a red piece of material, possibly a bandana, around its neck.

It had no lead.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 659 of 29/01.