A senior policeman who ordered the destruction of a police dog for biting a teenage lad has won a top job with the RSPCA.

Sussex Police Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Yeo, who was attacked by the RSPCA for authorising the dog's death, is to be the charity's new South East regional manager.

Animal groups last night called for the RSPCA to rescind the offer.

Roger Musselle, who runs a wildlife rescue group, said: "This is anything but tactful and they should stop the appointment."

There were protests from around the world when Mr Yeo ordered Bruce be put down in 2002.

When the Alsatian bit off part of the teenage attacker's ear, Mr Yeo described Bruce as just a "piece of equipment" which had failed and must be scrapped.

Mr Yeo, who joins the RSPCA in January, later apologised for his "insensitive and clumsy"

comments but stood by his decision.

Mr Yeo, who owns two dogs Freddie and Charlie, said the RSPCA was something he believed in, adding: "I am an animal lover and have kept geese, ducks, guinea pigs, cats and dogs as pets.

"I'm sorry if what I said about Bruce offended people but I wouldn't go back on the decision."