A BARMAID cradled a dying pensioner after he collapsed outside a Preston pub trying to defend his dog from a Rottweiler.

Tracey Martin, 25, was working at the West End Tavern in Broadgate, Preston, when the landlord's son, Christopher, rushed in saying his Rottweiler had slipped its lead and was fighting with an elderly man's labrador.

Tracey said: "I saw the man was already on the floor. I held his head in my hands and rested him on my knee. I said 'don't worry, it will be fine'.

"I thought he was breathing so I got a friend to get a blanket. Then I realised he wasn't breathing and I started to clear his mouth and turn him over then the police came and took over.

"I passed out when they pronounced him dead. I felt so guilty that I couldn't save him. But the police said I couldn't have done anything."

Police believe the dog fight started when Rottweiler Tyson was thrown a stick and both dogs went for it on Sunday evening as Fred Baybutt, of Colman Court, Broadgate, was on his way home.

Sgt Dobson of Preston Police said: "Mr Baybutt tried to intervene, but he got a bite off the Rottweiler on his hand. It is believed he had a heart attack as a result."

The landlady of the West End Tavern, Sarah Jane Hart, who owns the dog, was prepared to have it put down but has been told there is no need.

She said: "We would have done it out of respect for Mr Baybutt but the police advised us not to.

"Ths dog is very friendly and has never attacked before. All the kids round here get on with him." Mrs Baybutt was too upset to comment. The coroner has been informed.

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