A DOG was stolen after his owner was brutally beaten in Newbury on Saturday evening.

The 49-year-old victim was walking his Bichon Frise dog on Hambridge Road when he was approached by a gang of three men.

When he refused to hand over his pet, he was assaulted, causing him to fall to the floor.

The group continued with their attack, causing facial injuries, before making off with the dog at around 10.15pm.

Although the victim did not require hospital treatment, Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses to trace his beloved canine friend.

Designated investigator Tracy Cole, based at Newbury police station, said: "This was a very distressing incident in which the victim's dog was stolen from him.

"We are appealing for information to locate those responsible for this incident and also to be able to return the dog to the victim.

"If anyone witnessed this incident, or has any information relating to it, please contact the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101."