A stark warning has been sent out to dog lovers after an owner and their pet was attacked by two dogs.

Hullbridge Parish Council has issued the warning to dog walkers after the incident in Long Lane, Hullbridge.

The parish council says police are dealing with the incident, but it wants dog walkers to be alert following the attack on Saturday May 16.

A spokesman for the parish council said: “Beware of dogs Long Lane. We have been directly informed that an incident happened involving two German Shepherd dogs in an unprovoked attack on a dog owner and their dog.

“Although we understand that this matter is being dealt with by the police, we felt that for public safety and in an area that we maintain, that we should put up posters to advise those who walk along the lane and footpath to be vigilant.

"We do not know if these dogs are still able to roam freely from wherever they reside, so please take care if using this area. Thank you."