Politicians calling on voters during local elections seldom fear meeting supporters of another party.

But they are worried about dogs and with good reason, as Sheila Player, leader of the ruling Liberal Democrats on Worthing Council, can testify.

She needed hospital treatment after being bitten by a dog which came out of a house in Dawes Close when she was canvassing.

Despite the bite, Councillor Player is determined to carry on campaigning but will keep a careful eye open for aggressive pooches in future.

She can see the funny side of the incident but it really is not much of a laughing matter.

Fierce dogs should be kept under control at all times. It could have been much more serious had the dog attacked a young child.