A DOG saved its owner from a violent sex attacker.

The 32-year-old victim was walking her pet dog in a field, near Fields Farm Road, Hattersley, at about 8.30pm on Sunday when the attacker pounced on her, pulling at her trousers and punching her in the face while exposing himself.

But when the woman's dog leapt at him and bit him on the calf, the pervert ran off towards Waterside Road in terror.

Detective Inspector Iain Foulkes from Tameside CID has urged women to be vigilant when out walking at night.

He added: "The victim has understandably been left traumatised by this attack and it is vital we catch the man responsible.

"He was bitten on the calf by the victim's dog and I am keen to speak to anyone that may have seen or know a man with an injury on to his leg like this."

Det Insp Foulkes added: "I would like to reassure the community that this is an isolated incident that we are taking very seriously. I do not want to cause alarm but I would urge people living in the area, particularly women, to be vigilant and if you are out walking at night, try to stick to well-lit areas and keep in groups."

The offender is white, aged 35 to 40 years old, 6ft tall and of medium build. He had very light short blonde hair with a fringe and was wearing a light coloured jacket with dark grey shiny tracksuit bottoms.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Tameside CID on 0161 856 9255 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.