POLICE are hunting a gang of youths who attacked a dog and then turned on its owner.

The incident happened in Stanley, County Durham, between 11.30am and 12.15 pm on Sunday.

A man was walking his dog on the pathways behind Iceland which leads to the C2C cycle route.

A police spokesman said: "In a cowardly, unprovoked attack a group of youths approached him and began kicking at his dog.

"The male bent to protect the dog and was then attacked himself receiving numerous punches."

The attackers then fled the scene running down the hill in the general direction of the C2C cycle path.

Police say they are keen to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time.

The main suspect is described as a white, male teenager with short dark hair who was wearing some form of body warmer and dark jeans.

If you have any information which may help please contact PC2699 Archbold on 101 quoting reference WH1501571.