Mum and child attacked by Rottweiler-type dog on seafront

Devon and Cornwall Police have issued an appeal for witnesses after a child and woman were attacked by a dog on Sidmouth seafront. Officers have released a CCTV image of three women they're keen to speak with in connection with the incident.

The incident occurred around 7:30pm on Sunday, August 11, when a conversation about whether a Rottweiler-type dog should be on the beach escalated. The dog subsequently bit a child and the mother as she intervened to protect her child, say police.

Both were taken to hospital treatment but their injuries are not considered serious.

Police are now urging anyone who recognises the three women in the CCTV image to come forward. A statement from Devon and Cornwall Police read: "Police are appealing for the public's help identifying the three women pictured in relation to a dog attack."

"The incident took place at the Sidmouth seafront area at around 7.30pm on Sunday 11 August and involved a Rottweiler-type dog. It was reported that following a conversation involving the dog's owner about whether or not it should be on the beach, the dog bit a child and then bit the child's mum as she jumped in to protect her child. The victims were taken to hospital but their injuries were not serious."

"Officers investigating the attack would like to speak to the three women pictured here in bikinis as it is believed they may be able to help with enquiries. We are aware the image doesn't show their faces, but it is the only one we have available at present. Anybody who witnessed the incident or who has relevant information is asked to call 101 or visit our website quoting 50240202410."