A beachgoer went barking mad when this man threw his dog into the sea.

This picture was one of a series passed to Sussex Police and the RSPCA by the witness, who did not wish to be named.

The man, dressed in a purple shirt, dark trousers and wearing sunglasses, is seen throwing one of the dogs into the sea while another is already in the water.

He can then be seen pulling one of the dogs out of the water by the scruff of its neck.

Police were called to Hove Lagoon to investigate at 2.15pm on Saturday.

Sergeant Chris Lane of Sussex Police, said: “We received a call from a member of the public who had reported two dogs being mistreated.

“Two police cars, one marked and one unmarked, were sent to the scene.

“Unfortunately, however, the suspects had already left when they arrived.”

The RSPCA confirmed one of its investigators is also studying the pictures.

Anyone who saw what happened is asked to call Sgt Lane or PC Lisa Timerick on 0845 6070999 quoting serial 1070 of May 9.

* Do you know this man? Call The Argus on 01273 544516