POLICE are hunting for the owner of a white Staffordshire Bull Terrier after it attacked a dog and his owner.

The ‘shocking’ attack happened at about 9am on Christmas Day, near Gawthorpe Hall, on Habergham Drive, Padiham.

A man in his 40s, who owns at least three dogs, was walking along the street when a Staffie, who had been let off the lead at the time of the incident, attacked the man and his dog, officers said.

Golden retriever Charlie and his owner were left with injuries following the incident.

The dog then locked onto Charlie after attempting to attack another dog, which Charlie was trying to protect.

Officers released an image of a man they would like to speak to in relation to the incident.

A police spokesman said: “We have not identified the Staffie or his owner but we are still investigating.”

Cllr Mark Townsend, leader of Burnley Council, said: “It’s a shocking incident and any incident that inflicts bodily harm on people from irresponsible dog owners is unacceptable.

“I hope they are brought to justice.”

Cllr Andrew Tatchell, who represents the area, said: “It’s shocking any time of the year to hear of this but it must be very upsetting for the whole family at Christmas.

“I’m not aware of it being a big issue in the area.

“A lot of people walk their dogs around that area this time of year because of the woodland.

“My message for people is to go to the police and assist them in any way they can.”

In light of the incident, some readers have called on dog owners to be trained and to reintroduce the dog licence.

Writing on the Lancashire Telegraph’s Facebook page, Stu Fonz said: “I have said it before and I will say it again, dog owners should be asked to take a course on handling.

“There should also be regular classes or training for the handler and the dog.

“A dog out of control can leave serious injuries and life long issues for people and other dogs.”

Hayley Evans said: “There are no bad dogs but there are bad owners. Reintroduce the dog licence. I have two dogs and would definitely buy a licence.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 with log number LC-2017-1225-0300 or PC Tom Gibbons at 4268@lancashire.pnn.police.uk