A woman in her 70s was bitten by a dog in Wimborne St Giles on Monday 23 November, and police are appealing for any information.

At around 2pm the victim was out walking with her granddaughter in a field near to Bottlebush Lane when she became aware of two women walking toward her with two dogs.

One of the women was walking a large St Bernard dog that was ginger and white. As the victim passed this dog, it lunged and bit her in the hip area of her right side.

It is reported that the owner of the St Bernard attempted to get the dog away, which was on a lead, but she was unable to get it under control and fell over while trying to pull it away.

The victim sustained a substantial bite wound that required hospital treatment.

The owner of the St Bernard is described as white, aged in her 40s, approximately five feet three inches tall and of medium build with short light brown hair.

The second woman is described as white, approximately 40 years old and five feet eight inches tall, of medium build with thick blonde shoulder-length curly hair. She was walking a small dog with brown curly hair.

Police Constable Jennie Sykes-Martin, of Dorset Police, said, “The victim was left with a nasty wound on her leg and therefore, I am keen to identify the owner of the St Bernard.

“I am appealing to anyone who may recognise the two women from the descriptions given to please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200176172. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.