A DRIVER ploughed into a family’s two beloved dogs before speeding off – leaving the animals dying in their owners’ arms.

Alison and Alfie Skinner cradled their cherished labrador and border terrier as they drew their last breaths.

Seconds earlier they had watched in horror as a black BMW convertible rammed in to Bullitt and Rocky on Admiralty Way in Marchwood, Southampton.

Distraught Alison, 48, sobbed uncontrollably as she described the collision.

The mum-of-two wept: “I knew when I picked up Rocky that he was going to be dead in minutes. My labrador was crying out – it was just dreadful.

“My little border terrier died in my arms and the labrador died in the arms of my husband. The car just carried on. It was the worst thing I have ever experienced in my entire life.

“They were everything to us – they came everywhere we went and were such a big part of our lives. My husband and I are broken hearted.

I cannot believe anyone could be so callous.”

Alison said that as their dog walking route is usually quiet they let Rocky and Bullitt off their leads as they approach their home – also on Admiralty Way. But on this occasion a sports car “came out of nowhere”

before smashing in to the dogs and pulling them along the road without stopping.

Residents rushed to help the pair and police were called in to investigate the hit-and-run, which happened at 6.30pm on Sunday.

Alison added: “I was looking at my dogs and so I did not see a number plate.

Apparently the car had been seen speeding around the estate beforehand.

“My mother has been ill in hospital and the dogs were very comforting for my father.

“I am devastated – the dogs were just like children to us.

I cannot believe anyone would do this – the car was speeding so fast the dogs did not stand a chance.

“Seeing them die in this way is something we are going to have to live with for the rest of our lives.”

Police say the vehicle would have sustained damage to its front and are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.