AN investigation has been launched by police after a man was left with a "nasty injury" to his hand after being bitten by a dog.

The incident occurred at around 6.45pm on Thursday, September 10 near the airfield at Compton Abbas in North Dorset.

Dorset Police say a man in his 40s was walking his elderly Golden Retriever when his dog was attacked by a larger Golden Retriever.

The victim attempted to intervene and was bitten on the hand by the dog, which caused a deep laceration that required an operation.

The dog walker with the larger Retriever is described by police as white, aged in his late 70s or early 80s and of slim build with short grey hair.

He was wearing a blue jacket and it is believed he may be local as the victim had seen him in the area previously.

Police Constable Jennie Sykes-Martin, of Dorset Police, said: “We have been carrying out enquiries into this incident, which left the victim with a nasty injury to his hand.

“I would urge anyone who can help identify the owner of the dog involved, or who has any other information that might assist our investigation, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200136517.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.