Two dogs have been shot dead by armed police after an incident in a residential street.

A man in his 70s is receiving treatment in hospital for serious injuries following an incident in Lewes Close, Bognor, at about 9.50am this morning.

Police responded to several reports of a man being attacked in the street by two dogs, believed to be Rottweilers.

Officers said that due to the ongoing threat – and in order to protect the victim and the wider community – specialist firearms officers were "swiftly deployed" to the scene and granted authority to bring the dogs safely under control.

Police have confirmed that firearms were discharged and both dogs are now dead.

The dogs’ owners have been traced and police's enquiries are ongoing at this time.

Chief Superintendent Alex Geldart said: “We acknowledge the distressing nature of this incident and would like to assure the community that there is no further risk associated with it.

“The victim’s family are receiving support by specialist officers.

“This is a fast-moving investigation and enquiries are underway to establish the exact circumstances of what happened.

“We are aware this happened in a residential area and we’re urging anyone with information – including mobile or CCTV footage – to please contact us quoting Op Byfleet.

“You can report it online or call 101.”

This incident has been referred to the IOPC as a matter of course as a result of police involvement.