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An 11-year-old boy was rushed to hospital in a serious condition after being mauled by a dog in a 'horrific attack'.

The boy was taken to Alder Hey yesterday after being bitten on his legs, arms, face and back in Speke.

It was reported that one of two dogs bit the boy - and a man has been arrested for having a dog dangerously out of control in a public place.

However, police have not been able to find the dogs and are appealing for any information on where they might be.

Merseyside Police confirmed officers were called to Stapleton Avenue at around 5.35pm and that an 11-year-old boy was rushed to Alder Hey.

The boy remains in hospital this morning in a serious, but not life-threatening, condition.

A man was arrested under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act and has been taken to a police station for interview.

Chief Inspector Keith McLachlan said: "This was a horrific attack which has resulted in a boy suffering extensive injuries to his head and body.

"I want to reassure people that he is now getting the best possible care and treatment for his injuries at Alder Hey Children’s' Hospital.

"An extensive investigation is underway to establish exactly what has happened and to determine the breed of dogs involved.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident, who may have information which could help us find the dogs or help with our investigation to come forward as soon as possible

"This case highlights in the starkest terms the potential dangers of dogs and I would appeal to anyone with information about dangerous dogs in their area to contact us so that we can take pro-active action."

House-to-house inquiries are being carried out in the area and officers are exploring any CCTV opportunities.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 quoting incident reference 716 of 24 June or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information .