Yogi the St Bernard, who faced a possible death penalty for biting a policeman, has been reprieved.

But he will have to wear a muzzle in public and be securely fenced in while at home.

The five-year-old's owner, Stephen Prestage, of Wilderness Cottage, Copthorne Road, Copthorne, Crawley, accepted the conditions when he agreed to an order at Crawley Magistrates Court yesterday to keep a dangerous dog under proper control.

Jonathan Wintle, prosecuting, said police officers looking for an address in the village went to Mr Prestage's home on March 22.

He said: "As police sergeant Paul Huntley entered the front drive of the property, he was bitten on the left forearm. He was given first aid by his colleague and later went to Crawley hospital for treatment."

Nick Sampson, defending, said: "The injury to the officer is regretted but his own conduct led to it.

"He came on to the property waving his arms around, ignoring a dangerous dog notice and a shouted warning from the owner."

Mr Prestage, 57, was also ordered to pay £200 costs. After the case he said: "I am very relieved.