A MAN who was attacked by two Alsatians while out exercising on Prees Heath has urged anyone who recognises the owner of the dogs to come forward.

Martin Hobbs, who is staying with family in Whitchurch, was attacked by the two Alsatians on August 19 when he was running, requiring nine stitches in his upper arm.

West Mercia Police have also appealed for witnesses, but have, according to Martin, misplaced the attack at Back Lane and not the Heath.

Whitchurch Herald:

He wants anyone who has seen the owner previously, who is described in his 60s while the dogs are black and tan coloured, to come forward.

"I was on Prees Heath, near the old airfield," he said. "I was by myself on the Heath so we're asking for help identifying the dog owner from previous trips there.

"The ambulance driver has been in touch to confirm this."

Martin was treated for his injuries and is on the road to recovery, but admits the attack has left him afraid of dogs, and was critical of owners who let their dogs off the lead.

"This is not down to the dogs being dangerous but it's down to the owner," he added. "They shouldn't have been off the lead.

"It's not just about people, but there's horses on there and other dogs too.

"It happened to another dog owner before Christmas, so I'm told. Apparently they were chased by these Alsatians who were off the lead.

"They all had to scarper quite quickly. They described the same person with the two dogs.

"I'm a bit scared of dogs now; when I go past one, I start sweating which apparently is normal.

"I was on my bike beforehand but I got told it would scare the animals but the dogs were off the lead.

"The owners were ignoring the signs to tell them to keep their dogs off the lead."

West Mercia Police say the attack happened shortly before 12pm on Sunday, August 19.

A spokesperson said: "Police would like to identify and speak to the man believed to have been in charge of the two dogs as part of their ongoing enquiries. He is described as in his 60s.

"Also, a woman who may have witnessed the incident may have information that could help with their investigation.

"Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident number 0769S of August 19.

"Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org"