A DOG owner was assaulted by two men who attempted to steal his pet.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident in Middlesbrough on Sunday, May 31.

The 50-year-old victim Albert Park via Park Road North at around 9pm and headed towards the central fountain when two men approached him and demanded that he hand over his Labrador cross.

"The victim was pushed from behind and fell to the ground, banging his head and suffering cuts and grazes. The men then climbed on top of the man and assaulted him further. They then made off from the scene without the dog," said a spokesman for Cleveland Police.

"During the incident one of the suspects’ faces may have been injured by the dogs’ metal lead.

"The victim later attended James Cook University Hospital for treatment and was released."

Both suspects are described as of Asian appearance and aged in their early 30s. Each had dark hair and were wearing dark tracksuits.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anyone who may have information regarding the suspects is asked to contact DC Kevin Carter from Middlesbrough Volume Crime Team on the non-emergency number 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.