A dog has been deliberately run over and killed by traffic police in north Wales.

The dog was running loose on the A55 at varying locations between the Llanfairfechan roundabout and the Conwy tunnel and swerving in and out of traffic that was travelling in excess of 70mph, according to a statement from the force.

North Wales Police said that "several attempts" were made to catch the dog, which is believed to be a foxhound, and one officer who managed to get hold of it was bitten.

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing said that several calls were received by the North Wales Police control room shortly after 3am and the decision to take action was not taken "lightly".

The only safe option was to run the dog over at sufficient speed to ensure that it was destroyed and would not suffer. Other methods of destruction were considered, but were ruled out on the grounds of public safety. Chief Inspector Darren Wareing

He added: "One car and an HGV had to swerve to avoid the dog whilst the officers remained on foot in the carriageway. The potential for a serious collision was present throughout, and in the circumstances there was no alternative way that officers could contain the dog and minimise risks to motorists.

"Both officers have their own dogs and did not take this decision lightly. Due to the seriousness of the incident it needed bringing to a conclusion quickly for the safety of all concerned."