AN ELDERLY man has been left distraught after losing his dog when he was trampled by cows.

The man, from Richmond, was left with broken ribs and a head injury after he was injured by the cattle yesterday (Monday, August 16) while out walking.

Now he has issued an appeal for help in finding his lost dog, which fled during the incident.

He had been walking along the footpath from the top of the old racecourse near Richmond and into the valley called Coles Garth leading to Outmoor plantation when he was injured by the cows.

A passing motorist found him on the side of the road and he was taken to hospital, where he currently remains.

Police say the man is "distraught" as his beloved dog, Martha, went missing during the incident.

The dog is described as a small, black, terrier type dog with a grey muzzle.

Any members of the public who have seen or found a dog matching her description are urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101.