A blurred image is the only known picture of Dwain, the fleet-footed stray who has caused a headache for owners of a North-East racecourse.

The dog - named after sprinter Dwain Chambers - has eluded all attempts at capture since it first appeared on the scene at Sedgefield Racecourse.

Dwain has become something of a celebrity around the County Durham track and has even received coverage in the national racing Press.

The racecourse's commercial executive Amy Starkey said: "He was first spotted during August. Despite the best attempts of everyone here, we have been unable to persuade him to give himself up.

"People living in the village look out for him. They have left dog food out to tempt him and we have done the same, but nobody can catch him."

Dwain has so far proved too quick for jockeys, trainers, punters, staff and the local dog warden who have all tried and failed to collar him.

Nobody knows where he came from or where he sleeps and racecourse staff are concerned for his welfare.

They have offered a prize of free entry to the racecourse for the rest of the year for anyone who can safely catch him.

Yesterday, intrepid reporter Andrew White joined in the hunt.