Dog walker 'distressed' after attempt made to steal her French bulldog

AN attempted theft of a French bulldog in Bournemouth is being investigated by police.

The owner, a woman aged in her 70s, was walking her dog in King’s Park between 2pm and 2.10pm on Tuesday, July 2.

She was reportedly approached by a woman who asked to pet her dog, before she knelt down and attempted to take it.

An altercation between the victim and the woman ensued, and following an intervention from two members of the public, the woman ran off in the direction of the Vitality Stadium.

The suspect is described as five feet four inches tall, and aged in her 50s with long brown-blonde hair. She was wearing a navy-blue tracksuit and white trainers.

Officers are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Police constable Paul Humber, of Bournemouth police, said: “This has been a very distressing experience for the victim and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to try and locate the suspect.

“I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a woman matching the given description in the park at the time of the offence.

“I would also like to speak to the two members of the public who intervened and helped the victim, as they may have information that can assist with our investigation.”