Police have released a CCTV image following a serious dog attack in Letchworth Garden City, just a short distance from Hitchin.

The incident happened between 3.30pm and 3.50pm on Christmas Eve (Wednesday 24 December) in a wooded area next to Webb Close. A man was walking his own dog when it was reportedly attacked by another dog that was off its lead.

As he tried to intervene, the man was bitten by the other dog, suffering the loss of a finger and requiring hospital treatment.

Officers are now appealing for help to identify a person shown in a CCTV image who they believe may have been in the area at the time and could have information that would assist the investigation.

PC Callum Ellis, from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

"We appreciate this image is not very clear, but we hope it may jog someone's memory.

"If this is you, or you recognise the person pictured, please get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected].

You can also:

• Report information online at herts.police.uk/report
• Use the online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact
• Call the non-emergency number 101, quoting 41/121764/25

Alternatively, information can be given 100% anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

Residents in Hitchin and surrounding areas who were out walking dogs or passing through Letchworth Garden City on Christmas Eve are urged to check any dashcam, doorbell or personal footage they may have from the area and time.