A RUNNER needed hospital treatment after being bit when cornered by three dogs.

Police say the woman was out running through Dipton Woods, near Stanley on Friday evening (June 19) when she was approached by three red-gold coloured ‘hunting dogs’ which were off the lead.

She stopped instantly when she saw them, but they circled her, barking aggressively.

Two of the dogs were waist-high tall and, as she tried to walk past them, one bit her on the left thigh without any provocation.

She was left with two puncture wounds in her leg which needed hospital treatment.

Police are now trying to trace the male owner of the dogs, who is described as white, around 5ft 10ins tall and of proportionate build.

He was in his late 40s with grey hair and wearing green-brown coloured clothing.

Anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the owner is asked to contact PC Bates at Stanley Police or call Durham Police on 101, quoting reference DHM-19062015-0187.