A DOG has been rescued after being repeatedly kicked in the head before being picked up and thrown into the road in an ordeal lasting up to 20 minutes.

A Staffy cross called Winston was attacked by a man three times outside the Stumble Inn pub in Chester Road, Sunderland, at about 3am on Saturday, August 5.

The dog managed to run away following the incident and a witness found him in nearby Alexander Court, took him home and called the RSPCA.

He has since been taken to the RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre in Chester Moor, near Chester-le-Street, where he is being looked after.

The dog, who members of staff have named Winston is in an overall good condition. When he was first rescued he had very bloodshot eyes and graze marks along his back.

RSPCA Inspector Terri-Ann Fannon, who is investigating, said: “A member of the public said they saw a man kick and punch the dog in the head before pressing the dog to the ground by his foot.

"Luckily he managed to run away and is now in RSPCA care where he will be looked after by a dedicated team at Felledge.”

The man is described as in his late 30s or early 40s with short brown hair. He is described as wearing deep blue shorts, white socks and white trainers, a grey hoodie and a grey t-shirt.

Inspector Fannon added: “Unfortunately there was no CCTV in the area so we are urging anyone who recognises this man, or the dog, or anyone who may have any information that could help our investigation to contact the inspectorate appeal line on 0300-123-8018.”

If you see an animal in distress please call the RSPCA 24-hour helpline on 0300 1234 999.