A FAMILY is appealing for information after their West Highland terrier was savagely attacked by four lurchers on Wednesday.

Michael Jones, of Mosley Avenue in Bury, was walking two-year-old Millie across fields near Walmersley Golf Club when two white lurchers pounced on the small dog, which was off its lead close to Mr Jones.

As Mr Jones tried to free Millie, two more dark-coloured lurchers appeared and joined in the attack.

Mr Jones' wife, Pamela said: "The lurchers appeared out of nowhere and just sank their teeth into her. Their was no stopping them, they just wanted to get her and it was as simple as that."

A man with the lurchers was close by but, after bringing the dogs under control, walked away, leaving Mr Jones to rush Millie to the vets where she was kept overnight.

The terrier had staples put into wounds in her neck and has serious injuries to her legs as well as bruising.

The incident has been reported to the police but, without the owners identity, they are unable to trace the dogs.

Mrs Jones said: "We do not know if this man felt any remorse but we want an apology. Someone must know something. It is not often you see someone walking four lurchers.

"We have three small children who are devastated and we do not want another family to go through what we have been through." Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111